Romania in Primul Razboi Mondial. Criza Balcanica 1912–1914. Petre Otu

Petre Otu studies Romania’s role in the Balkan crisis of 1912–1913. He links it to Romania’s entry into the First World War. This work of history looks at ties with other states. It also studies choices about the use of troops.

The book calls this the worst crisis before the war. It argues that the crisis left lasting rifts between states. It shows how events in the Balkans shaped Romania’s course.

Otu traces Romania’s move away from its old ally, Austria-Hungary. The army crossed the Danube in July 1913. This move gave a sign of the change to come. In August 1914, Romania chose not to take sides. In August 1916, it joined the Entente and fought Austria-Hungary.

The book links the Second Balkan War to later army failings. It argues that this earlier campaign shaped flawed plans for autumn 1916. The campaign that autumn ended in a harsh defeat for Romania.