Ep 12. John J. Pershing, the Doughboys, and France

American Military History: From Colonials to Counterinsurgents is a documentary series that chronicles the history of the United States military from its earliest beginnings to the present day. Season 1 episode 12, John J. Pershing, the Doughboys, and France, tells the story of General John J. Pershing and the American Expeditionary Forces (AEF) during World War I.

The episode begins with a brief overview of the United States' entry into World War I. President Woodrow Wilson declared war on Germany in April of 1917, but the American military was unprepared for the conflict. General Pershing, a veteran of the Spanish-American War and the Philippine Insurrection, was tasked with assembling and training a force of American soldiers, known as the Doughboys, to fight in Europe.

The episode follows Pershing and the Doughboys as they arrive in France in the summer of 1917. The AEF faced numerous challenges during their time in France, including language barriers, supply shortages, and the harsh realities of trench warfare. However, under Pershing's leadership, the AEF quickly adapted and began to make significant contributions to the war effort.

One of the most significant battles of World War I was the Meuse-Argonne Offensive, which took place in northern France from September to November of 1918. The episode provides a detailed account of the AEF's role in the offensive, which was the largest and deadliest battle in American history up to that point. The AEF suffered heavy casualties in the battle, but they were ultimately successful in pushing back the German army and helping to bring an end to the war.

In addition to the military aspects of the war, the episode also examines the relationship between the Doughboys and the French people. Despite the language barrier and cultural differences, the Americans and the French formed a strong bond during the war. The episode features interviews with historians and veterans who discuss the impact of this relationship on both the war effort and the future of American-French relations.

Overall, John J. Pershing, the Doughboys, and France provides a comprehensive look at the American military's involvement in World War I. Through a combination of archival footage, interviews with historians and veterans, and dramatic reenactments, the episode brings to life the experiences of the soldiers who fought and died on the battlefields of France. It is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices that have been made to preserve freedom and democracy around the world.