The magazine was discontinued after the 8 February 1919 issue, but returned 16 September 1939 following the start of the Second World War.

It includes numerous maps, photographs and illustrations, and the work of war artists, weekly reporting, and editorials on the conduct, events, and consequences of global conflict.

Subtitled "A Pictorial Record of the Conflict of the Nations", The War Illustrated was initially sensationalistic and patriotic.

Although it contained articles, the main focus was on photographs and illustrations, most notably those of Stanley Wood dramatising (or in some cases fabricating) events involving German troops.

[2] Both versions of The War Illustrated were edited by John Hammerton, who also contributed articles throughout the magazine's run.