Mutinous Memories: A Subjective History of French Military Protest in 1919

This book explores the 1919 French infantry and navy mutinies, revealing an emotional gulf between officers and the ranks. It examines how mutineer memories persisted despite official censorship and repression, with the French Communist Party co-opting the mutiny.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 14 May 2019
Publisher: Manchester University Press

This captivating book delves into a profound eight-month wave of mutinies that shook the French infantry and navy in 1919. Drawing upon official records and the invaluable testimony of dozens of participants, it emerges as the pioneering effort to unravel the enigmatic world of the mutineers. Through a meticulous examination of their words, the author seeks to uncover the subtle traces of sensory perceptions, emotions, and thought processes that shaped their actions. What emerges is a startling revelation: the conventional understanding of the mutinies as mere manifestations of war-weariness and low morale fails to capture the full complexity of the events. A profound emotional gulf existed between officers and the ranks, bridged by an utter lack of common language. The revolt, in all its intensity, entailed emotional rollercoasters that led to a profound ambivalence and a sense of despair or regret.

In the face of official censorship, repression, and the co-option of the mutiny by the French Communist Party, the book explores the enduring legacy of mutineer memories. It sheds light on the ways in which individuals and communities managed to preserve and commemorate these events, despite the oppressive forces attempting to erase them from public consciousness. The author offers a thought-provoking analysis of the power of memory, the resilience of the human spirit, and the complexities of navigating the aftermath of a tumultuous historical moment.

This captivating book is a testament to the enduring relevance of historical inquiry and the importance of understanding the complexities of human behavior. It provides a valuable contribution to our understanding of the First World War and its aftermath, challenging us to reevaluate our assumptions and seek a deeper understanding of the events that shaped our world.

Weight: 396g
Dimension: 146 x 224 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526114105