The First Men’s Wars and Defeats

This flow follows the First human species as fear, nationalism, and technological power turn limited conflicts into the destruction of Europe and global civilization.

increasingBearing stren­gth in each eventdecreasing

The European War

War and Its Aftermath Rival justifications Each side believes it defends civilization, though the conflict mixes honorable motives with brutality. Exceptional acts of generosity coexist with ordinary tribal hatred. A missed opportunity The suffering produces a temporary desire for peace and world unity. The settlement that follows fails to turn that desire into a lasting political order.

The Franco-Italian War

Prestige and Expansion A militarized state Italy’s government uses social reform and national pride to build military confidence. A dispute over territory and a flag becomes a test of prestige. A swift defeat France defeats Italy, and the dictator dies amid the collapse of his ambition. The episode shows how a manufactured demand for national glory can make a minor incident catastrophic.

The Anglo-French Outbreak

Rumor Becomes War A fabricated outrage A false accusation and sensational press coverage turn cultural suspicion into a public crisis. The governments’ strategic rivalry over air power gives the dispute a military foundation. Cities under attack French aircraft devastate London, and an accidental bombing kills a princess. Public anger overwhelms the peace movement and destroys Paris in retaliation.

Poison Across Europe

Europe’s Final Defeat Misread events The annihilation of the American air fleet intensifies American fury, although the scientists’ decision was meant to prevent unlimited destruction. The European governments are unable to control the consequences. A continent emptied American poison gas kills Europe’s populations and leaves its cities silent. The victory also burdens the Americans with collective guilt and deepens their hostility to criticism.

War Between Continents

East Against West Resurgent tribal feeling Long peace and economic interdependence fail to extinguish unconscious combative impulses. A dispute over labor conditions and American intervention triggers war between the West and the East. A prolonged devastation Poison, disease, and air attacks ruin whole regions without producing decisive victory. The conflict ends only when exhaustion and mutual danger make political unity necessary.

At the opening of the chronicle

Within the century after the European War

A generation after the Franco-Italian War

After the scientists destroy the annihilation weapon

Centuries after Europe’s eclipse