The First, the Few, the Forgotten

The First, the Few, the Forgotten

by Jean Ebbert

"Navy and Marine Corps Women in World War I"

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The First, the Few, the Forgotten

The First, the Few, the Forgotten by Jean Ebbert

Details

War:

World War I

Perspective:

Medics

Military Unit:

US Navy

True Story:

Yes

Biography:

No

Region:

North America

Page Count:

232

Published Date:

2002

ISBN13:

9781557502032

Description

Brief Summary

The First, the Few, the Forgotten by Jean Ebbert is a seminal work that uncovers the largely overlooked contributions of women who served in the military during World War I. The book challenges the traditional narrative that confines women's war roles to nursing, illustrating how from 1917 to 1920, over 12,000 women served in the U.S. Naval Reserve and 305 in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve. Through meticulously researched historical accounts, the authors bring to light the diverse and often specialized roles these women undertook, highlighting their significant yet unheralded contributions to the war effort.

Main Themes and Topics

One of the central themes of the book is the exploration of gender roles during wartime, specifically how women carved out a space for themselves in the military context. The narrative delves into the bureaucratic and social challenges faced by these pioneering women, addressing the Navy's official and unofficial responses to their presence. Another key topic is the detailed record of the women's backgrounds, training, and duties, which serves to acknowledge their historical significance and inspire future generations. The book is a pivotal contribution to both military history and women's studies, offering a comprehensive view of the hurdles and triumphs experienced by female military personnel in World War I.

Writing Style and Tone

Jean Ebbert's writing is both careful and engaging, balancing rigorous historical research with accessible storytelling. The tone is respectful and informative, aiming to educate while paying homage to the women whose stories have been forgotten. The detail-oriented narrative ensures that readers gain a nuanced understanding of the impact and legacy of these servicewomen, making the book both enlightening and compelling.

Criticism

While The First, the Few, the Forgotten is widely acclaimed for its original research and comprehensive approach, some critics have noted that the book could benefit from a broader international perspective. By focusing primarily on U.S. servicewomen, the book limits its exploration to the American experience, potentially overlooking similar contributions made by women in other countries during World War I.

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