In "The Proud Tower: A Portrait of the World Before the War, 1890-1914," Barbara W. Tuchman reflects on the complexity of her narrative. She acknowledges that her account does not encompass the entirety of the era's richness and intricacies. This recognition stems not from false modesty but from a genuine understanding of the many stories and voices she has left unrepresented.

Tuchman's awareness of the omitted elements emphasizes the challenges historians face in capturing the full scope of history. As she concludes her work, the absence of these diverse perspectives resonates with her, illustrating the importance of recognizing the broader context and the myriad experiences that shape historical events.