Women and the French Army During the World Wars, 1914-1940

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The book explores the significant yet often overlooked contributions of French women to the military efforts during the World Wars. Historian Andrew Orr highlights how women initially supported the military as civilians during WWI, only to face mass layoffs after the war. Despite administrative needs leading to their rehiring, the army's acceptance of women fluctuated, with resistance against their enlistment as soldiers. By 1938, as war preparations intensified, women’s roles expanded, revealing their essential support behind the lines despite systemic opposition.