Pétain the Soldier

Ryan, Stephen

Published by A. S. Barnes, South Brunswick, NJ, 1969

About this Item

315 p. 25 cm. Illustrations. Footnotes. Index. Map l; aid in. In Petain the Soldier Professor Ryan has given us a glimpse into the fascinating military career of one of the most controversial figures in modern history-Henri Philippe Petain, Marshal of France. The years of his service to his country spanned two world wars, and his military doctrines deeply affected the fortunes of France during the first half of the twentieth century. The life of the remarkable officer who was scheduled for retirement in 1914 but who instead rose to command to victory the armies of France in one world war, but who is best-known for his role in their disastrous defeat in another, is here out-lined with considerable insight and skill. The personal role played by Petain is deftly combined with the behind-the-scenes planning, the conflict of military doctrines, the desperate struggle of a nation at grips twice in a generation with the same implacable German adversary. This book will be of special interest to those who only know of Petain's association with the Vichy Government. What has perhaps been forgotten is that Petain, during World War I, was France's savior. In 1917 he took command of an army on the verge of mutiny: it was an army that had been decimated by the blundering of generals who did not understand the static nature of the trench warfare that was being waged, and who insisted upon outdated, all-out offensive Within a short time after assuming command, Petain-who emphasized close coordination between artillery and infantry; who attempted to save as many French lives as possible with his defensive oriented strategy; who advocated a unified allied command-restored the morale of his forces and achieved victory for his nation. Professor Ryan also discusses Petain's postwar carreer & his role in the Vichy govt. Good in fair dust jacket. DJ has some wear and soiling, edge tears and chips. Edges soiled. Seller Inventory # 61070

Bibliographic Details

Title: Pétain the Soldier

Publisher: A. S. Barnes, South Brunswick, NJ

Publication Date: 1969

Binding: Hardcover