The creation of myths after 1945 -- British policy and strategy -- British generalship in the two world wars -- At the sharp end: combat experience in the two world wars -- Attrition in the First World War: the naval blockade -- Attrition in the Second World War: the strategic bombing of Germany -- The transformation of war on the western front, 1914 -- 1918 -- The British Army's learning process in the Second World War -- After the wars: Britain's gains and losses