Instructions for American Servicemen in France during World War II
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- Synopsis
- “A culturally sensitive and practical work, albeit one that pertains to the highly specific scenario of traveling through France immediately after D-Day.” —Nick Greene, Mental FlossWritten by anonymous War Department staffers to meet the urgent needs of the moment, with no thought of its historical value, Instructions for American Servicemen in France during World War II nevertheless brings to vivid life the closing years of World War II—when optimism was growing, but a long, demanding road still lay ahead.After lying unseen in Army archives for decades, this remarkable guide is now available in a new facsimile edition that reproduces the full text and illustrations of the original along with a new introduction by Rick Atkinson setting the book in context.Written in a straightforward, personal tone, the pamphlet is equal parts guidebook, cultural snapshot, and propaganda piece. A central aim is to dispel any prejudices American soldiers may have about the French—especially relating to their quick capitulation in 1940. Warning soldiers that the defeat “is a raw spot which the Nazis have been riding” since the occupation began, Instructions is careful to highlight France’s long historical role as a major U.S. ally. Following that is a brief, fascinating sketch of the French character (“The French are mentally quick;” “Rich or poor, they are economical”) and stark reminders of the deprivation the French have endured under occupation. Yet an air of reassuring confidence pervades the final section of the pamphlet, which reads like a straightforward tourists’ guide to Paris and the provinces—like a promise of better days to come once the soldiers complete their mission.
- Copyright:
- 2008
Book Details
- Book Quality:
- Publisher Quality
- Book Size:
- 84 Pages
- ISBN-13:
- 9780226841755
- Related ISBNs:
- 9780226841724
- Publisher:
- The University of Chicago Press
- Date of Addition:
- 09/19/25
- Copyrighted By:
- The University of Chicago Press, 2
- Adult content:
- No
- Language:
- English
- Has Image Descriptions:
- No
- Categories:
- History, Military, Nonfiction, Travel
- Submitted By:
- Bookshare Staff
- Usage Restrictions:
- This is a copyrighted book.
- Introduction by:
- Rick Atkinson