The Great War

World War I marks the first time that artists went into battle. In 1918, the Army recruited eight artists and made them captains. They deployed with the American Expeditionary Forces and recorded events firsthand. Other eyewitness artists also documented the fighting, albeit unofficially. They established a legacy: since World War I, active duty Army artists have followed in the footsteps of the artists included in this volume. They put on uniforms, live with the troops, observe the Army's activities directly, and preserve these memories on canvas, paper, and other mediums. From World War II to Vietnam to current operations all over the world, Army artists have been inspired by the work of their predecessors in World War I. This volume presents the rich artistic legacy of World War I, showcasing some of the 16,000 pieces of art from the Army Art Collection and the U.S. Army Center of Military History. These artworks are vivid primary sources on the war.--Provided by publisher.