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The Concise Encyclopedia of World War II. By Cathal J. Nolan. Santa Barbara, Calif.: Greenwood, 2010. 2 vols. Acid-free $195 (ISBN: 978-0-313-33050-6).
A momentous and global war, World War II had farreaching consequences. A subject of significant historical importance and of intense interest for many, there remains a nearly endless supply of new works devoted to World War II. In this deluge, Boston University military professor Cathal J. Nolan's The Concise Encyclopedia of World War II stands out for its global treatment, but it also contains several weaknesses. A two-volume set, this reference work contains encyclopedia entries, maps, and a select bibliography.
World War II encompasses myriad historical approaches, and Nolan's encyclopedia focuses primarily on military aspects while also addressing diplomatic and political subjects. Although narrowly focused on military matters, Nolan's work provides a remarkably even coverage of military issues for each country involved in the...