The Riddle of the Rhine Chemical Strategy in Peace and War

Victor Lefebure’s The Riddle of the Rhine: Chemical Strategy in Peace and War is a critical examination of the role of chemical warfare during World War I and its implications for future conflicts. The book provides an in-depth analysis of the development deployment and consequences of chemical weapons particularly the use of poison gas on the Western Front. Lefebure who was directly involved in chemical warfare research offers a firsthand perspective on the scientific advancements strategic considerations and ethical debates surrounding chemical weapons.Beyond its wartime context the book warns of the dangers posed by chemical technology in peacetime highlighting the potential for industrial and military applications. Lefebure advocates for international regulation and control of chemical warfare to prevent its devastating effects in future wars. The Riddle of the Rhine is both a historical account and a cautionary work shedding light on the intersection of science strategy and global security in the early 20th century.