Wow! How narrow of me. When I asked this question I was looking at it from my point of view, from my historical perspective. Of course it's different for Russia.

Let me start this response by saying I have been fascinated with history my whole life. I even received an award at high school graduation for interest (not excellence!) in history. Your comment allows me to reach across the globe, and time, with fresh eyes. While you weren't there when it happened, you are there now and live with the consequences, as I do. Although to many people the war seems irrelevant, you and I know it changed the world.

Of all the things that came out of that war, I think the most compelling is what it teaches us about war. A monster without a master. Those European powers ambled into the conflict without a hint of where it would take them, what it would cost.

Of course I ended up teaching history, for a few years. In many cases I put aside the book with its dusty lessons. I relearned it every year, so I could teach it fresh. I tried not to be narrow in my understanding. Your comment is a reminder that narrowness is a threat no matter how careful I try to be.

Fascinating comment. Thanks @qwerrie.