Marco Warman, host of "The World" on NPR, just referred to WWII as "The Great War"

[hiphopnation]

He was interviewing a Normandy survivor, and in wrapping up the interview, he said confidently, "You know, World War II is often referred to as 'The Great War'..."

I said to myself, "Self, isn't it World War I that's usually referred to as 'The Great War'?" So, I did some simple googling, and unless I'm missing some inside, WWII veteran speak, 'The Great War' is most definitely, World War I.

I just thought it timely, what with all of the generational threads flaming up recently in GD in addition to all those decrying American education, in which I usually end up defending American smarts.

I can only imagine what the WWII vet was thinking -- he didn't say anything, likely out of politeness.

Yikes.

:banghead:

[1620rock]

1. WW1 was the "Great War", but either way, there is nothing great about war.

[angstlessk]

2. ww1 the war to end all wars...then why the fuck did they number it???

on edit: I need to do the :sarcasm: smilie, I am sure, or some would think me dumber than dirt!

[Crabby Appleton]

3. You are correct

Known as "The Great War" and "The World War" (no number until the 2nd one)

[hiphopnation]

4. i was just shocked that an NPR host

didn't know this and that no one caught it on edit since it's obviously a pre-taped show.

numbnuts!

[CJCRANE]

5. You're right.

World War II veterans are known as "The Greatest Generation" but World War I is the "Great War".

[hiphopnation]

6. maybe that's what he meant

but you would think the editor would have caught it...maybe not.

m'eh! now i remember why i so infrequently listen to NPR anymore...BBC is so much better.