Master of the Multiple Viewpoint

A.J.P. Taylor, in explaining why the Crimean War occurred and, more crucially, its short, medium and long-term consequences, displayed his mastery of international history and, in particular, his ability to understand and then integrate multiple viewpoints.

The roots of the war, which pitched Britain, France and the Ottoman Empire against Russia, were indeed multiple. French interests in the Near East had led to support for demands by Catholic priests for access to the holy places. Ottoman concessions on this matter led to similar demands from Russia, protector of the Orthodox clergy, but their pressure was resented by the Turks.

Britain and France were worried that Russia was becoming too powerful in Europe. In addition, Britain had concerns about competition with Russia in South Asia. Russophobia helped to push a divided British government into war. The complexities of international relations were ably charted by Taylor, in particular the importance diplomatically of the neutral states of Prussia and Austria.