The Great Illusion by Norman Angell

Relative failure of Hague Conferences and the cause -- Public opinion the necessary motive force of national action -- That opinion only stable if informed -- "Friendship" between nations and its limitations -- America's role in the coming "Political Reformation."

Much of the pessimism as to the possibility of any progress in this matter is based on the failure of such efforts as Hague Conferences. Never has the contest of armament been so keen as when Europe began to indulge in Peace Conferences. Speaking roughly and generally, the era of great armament expansion dates from the first Hague Conference.