A MODERN history expert is giving a public talk about how the bloody events of 1916 made it a pivotal year for Europe.

Dr André Keil, a Lecturer in Modern European History at Durham University’s history department , will discuss how the great battles of 1916 – including the Somme, Verdun and the maritime battle of Jutland – altered the course of European politics.

The talk, entitled 1916 – The Year That Changed the War? will look at how the course of the First World War was dramatically changed by the year's events, looking at the home front, anti-war strikes in Austria and Germany and the rise of Prime Minister David Lloyd George.

Dr Keith Bartlett, director of culture at Durham University, said: “We want to share the rich body of research, knowledge and expertise that exists in Durham University.

“Dr Keil’s talk is a great example of this in action. This is a fantastic chance to hear from an academic that knows this incredibly important part of European history, intimately.

“For those interested in World War 1 and its great battles Dr Keil will show how the seismic events of 100 years ago altered the course of European history.”

The free event takes place on Thursday, September 22 and is being held at Palace Green Library in Durham City between 6pm and 7.30pm.

Booking is essential. Visit www.dur.ac.uk/conference.booking or call 0191 334 2993 for details.

The library is hosting an exhibition about the Somme and the role of County Durham, which is due to close on Sunday, October 2.