Kriegsgefahrsustand

As the last day of July, 1914 came to its close over dinner on a Paris Street, there was a gathering of men who came to discuss the issue of the day. It seemed as if a sprit of “kriegsgefahrsustand” had taken firm control over everything and everyone. Seemingly, there was no stopping the calamity that was creaking through its opening phase.

But IF it could be stopped, there was at least one man who was determined to stop it.

As nations mobilized, diplomatic notes were delivered and debated, neutrality was discussed and ignored, and the sun had set over the City of Light, at least giving relief to a blazing hot summer day, that man, Jean Jaurès gathered over dinner with other men who hoped that something – anything – could be done to halt the march to destruction. Wine glasses were poured and dinner was served.

Just three quarters of an hour later, the last hope for peace was gone…