Out To Win: The Story of America in France
by Coningsby Dawson (1883–1959)
- Free to read
- 3 hours to read
- 5 chapters
- Reading level: 8th & 9th grade
"Out To Win: The Story of America in France" by Coningsby Dawson is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book explores America's involvement in World War I, specifically focusing on the efforts and sacrifices made by American troops in France. The author, an Englishman who lived in the United States, shares his experiences and observations of American soldiers, their spirit, and the growing bond between America and its Allies during the war. The opening of the book introduces a reflection on the prevailing attitudes of various nations as they confront the realities of war. Dawson critiques those who spread discord between England and America, noting the importance of unity in the face of shared adversity. He describes the determination of American soldiers as they prepare to contribute to the Allied effort, emphasizing their commitment and the transformative power of their journey from civilians to engaged fighters. The author captures the essence of the American spirit during this tumultuous time, showcasing optimism, a sense of duty, and the desire for a just resolution, all while pledging not to withdraw until victory is achieved.
- World War, 1914-1918 · United States
Read the opening
Chapter I: "We've Got Four Years"
The American Troops have set words to one of their bugle calls. These words are indicative of their spirit—of the calculated determination with which they have faced up to their adventure: an adventure unparalleled for magnitude in the history of their nation.
They fall in in two ranks. They tell off from the right in fours. "Move to the right in fours. Quick March," comes the order. The bugles strike up. The men swing into column formation, heads erect and picking up the step. To the song of the bugles they chant words as they march. "We've got four years to do this job. We've got four years to do this job."
That is the spirit of America. Her soldiers give her four years, but to judge from the scale of her preparations she might be planning for thirty.
America is out to win. I write this opening sentence in Paris where I am temporarily absent from my battery, that I may record the story of America's efforts in France. My purpose is to prove with facts that America is in the war to her last dollar, her last man, and for just as long as Germany remains unrepentant. Her strength is unexpended, her spirit is un-war-weary. She has a greater efficient man-power for her population than any nation that has yet entered the arena of hostilities. Her resources are continental rather than national; it is as though a new and undivided Europe had sprung to arms in moral horror against Germany. She has this to add fierceness to her soul—the reproach that she came in too late. That reproach is being wiped out rapidly by the scarlet of self-imposed sacrifice. She did come in late—for that very reason she will be the last of Germany's adversaries to withdraw.
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About this edition
This free edition of Out To Win: The Story of America in France by Coningsby Dawson comes from Project Gutenberg eBook #15194, released 2005-02-27. It is in the public domain in the United States, so you can read it here in full at no cost, on any phone, tablet or computer. Genre: History - American, History - European, History - Modern (1750+), History - Warfare.
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