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The Forgotten Contributions of the United States in WWI with Madeleine Johnson

Season 10, Ep. 8
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In this engaging episode of History Rage, our hosts Paul and Kyle are joined by the passionate and knowledgeable guest, Madeleine Johnson, who's about to unleash her fiery rage on a largely overlooked topic— the United States' significant but often underestimated role in World War I. Prepare to embark on a historical journey as we explore Madeleine's compelling perspective on the American contribution to the Great War. Get ready to unravel the complexities and controversies surrounding this pivotal chapter in history as we discuss the Battle of Belleau Wood, the overall impact of U.S. involvement, and the reasons behind the tendency to downplay World War I in American historical memory.


Show Notes


  • Madeleine Johnson's Passionate Introduction: Madeleine Johnson, an expert on World War I history, sets the stage for a heated discussion about the often underappreciated American contribution to the Great War.
  • Challenges Faced by the U.S.: The hosts and Madeleine delve into the challenges the U.S. faced as it entered World War I and the lack of an established army.
  • French and British Expectations: The conversation explores the expectations of the French and British when the U.S. troops arrived in France.
  • The Battle of Belleau Wood: A discussion about the significance of the Battle of Belleau Wood, the founding myth of the U.S. Marines, and the contrasting reactions of the French and British.
  • U.S. Troops on the Western Front: How the American troops started making a difference on the Western Front and their impact on the Germans.
  • Logistical Feat: The logistical challenges involved in sending American troops to the front lines in Europe.
  • The Battle of the Meuse-Argonne: Insight into the Battle of the Meuse-Argonne, the largest ever battle in American history, and the notable figures involved.
  • Overall Impact: Madeleine discusses the overall impact of American involvement in World War I, emphasizing the massive contributions of the U.S. in terms of men and materials.
  • Challenges in Remembering World War I: The hosts and Madeleine explore the reasons why World War I is often downplayed and forgotten in American historical memory.
  • The Easier Narrative of World War II: A comparison of the more straightforward narrative of World War II and the reasons it tends to overshadow the complexities of World War I.
  • Conclusion: Madeleine reflects on the bitterness and depression that followed World War I and the legacy it left in the U.S.
  • African American Contribution: A teaser for an upcoming episode with Chad Williams, focusing on the African American contribution to World War I.
  • Final Thoughts: Madeleine wraps up her passionate discussion, and the hosts encourage listeners to engage with the show and provide reviews.


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