The French Army in the First World War

by Ian Sumner

Overview

The French army of the First World War withstood the main force of the German onslaught on the Western Front, but often it is neglected in English histories of the conflict. Now, though, keen interest in the war in general and in the part the French played in it has prompted a fresh appreciation of their army and the men who served in it.

Ian Sumner’s wide-ranging photographic history is an important contribution in this growing field. Using a selection of over 150 rare wartime photographs, he provides a graphic overview of every aspect of a French soldier’s service during the struggle.

But while the photographs create a fascinating all-round portrait of the French poilu at war, they also give an insight into the army as a whole, and offer a rare French perspective on the Great War.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781473856202
Publisher:	Pen and Sword
Publication date:	10/30/2016
Series:	Images Of War
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
Pages:	128
File size:	90 MB
Note:	This product may take a few minutes to download.

About the Author

Ian Sumner is a prolific writer and researcher who specializes in local and military history. He has made a particular study of the French army and air force during the First World War, his many books on the subject including The French Army 1914-18, French Poilu 1914-18, First Battle of the Marne 1914, They Shall Not Pass: The French Army on the Western Front 1914-1918, Kings of the Air: French Aces and Airmen of the Great War and The French Army at Verdun.

Table of Contents

Introduction and Acknowledgements 7

Chapter 1 'The attack must be pursued at close quarters' 9

Chapter 2 Finding the Right Formula 28

Chapter 3 'Warriors ready for anything' 60

Chapter 4 'We know nothing of glory' 76

Chapter 5 'Life goes on' 102

Chapter 6 'An unforgettable day' 122