We Also Served: The Forgotten Women of the First World War

We Also Served is a social history of women's involvement in the First World War, dispelling myths and preconceptions and highlighting countless acts of derring-do, determination, and quiet heroism by British women. By 1918, hundreds of thousands of women from all corners of the world had lent their individual wills and collective strength to the Allied cause, becoming nurses, munitions workers, and members of the Land Army. At least one British woman bore arms, and over a thousand women lost their lives as a direct result of their involvement with the war.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 30 January 2021
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

We Also Served is a captivating social history that delves into the remarkable involvement of women in the First World War. Author Dr. Vivien Newman sets out to challenge prevailing myths and misconceptions surrounding women's war work, and her mission is to enlighten contemporary readers about the countless acts of bravery, determination, and quiet heroism performed by British women during this period. When the war erupted in August 1914, only 640 women had a clearly defined wartime role. However, against the advice of the early War Office to return home and remain idle, by 1918, hundreds of thousands of women from diverse corners of the world had willingly contributed their individual wills and collective strength to the Allied cause. These women took on various roles, including becoming nurses, munitions workers, and members of the Land Army. They also served as ambulance drivers and surgeons, working alongside the Armed Forces and even funding and managing their own hospitals within close proximity to the battlefields. It is worth noting that at least one British woman bore arms, and over a thousand women lost their lives as a direct result of their involvement in the war.

Through the pages of this book, these all but forgotten women have the opportunity to speak directly to us, sharing their war experiences, lives, and stories. Dr. Newman's meticulous research and compelling storytelling bring these women to life, allowing us to gain a deeper understanding of their contributions to the war effort. We Also Served is not only a valuable contribution to the field of history but also a testament to the resilience and determination of women in times of crisis. It serves as a reminder that women have always played a vital role in shaping the course of history, and their experiences during the First World War should be honored and remembered.

Weight: 336g
Dimension: 156 x 231 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781526796639