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Desertion and the American Soldier: 1776-2006: Revolutionary War Paperback – April 2, 2006

5.0 5.0 out of 5 stars 3 ratings

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In Desertion and the American Soldier: 1776-2006, Robert Fantina presents a compelling and insightful examination of military desertion, a topic often shrouded in misunderstanding and stigma. Covering more than two centuries of American history, from the Revolutionary War to the Iraqi Occupation, this book delves deeply into the complex motivations that lead soldiers to desert, offering a perspective that challenges widely held beliefs and historical narratives.

At the heart of this book is an exploration of the diverse factors that contribute to desertion, showing how political, economic, and social circumstances have influenced soldiers' decisions to leave their posts. Fantina breaks down the traditional notion that desertion is simply an act of cowardice or betrayal. Instead, he reveals that many deserters are driven by unjust military policies, harsh conditions, and systemic issues that push them beyond their limits.

Fantina's meticulous research and thorough analysis of historical records provide readers with a detailed understanding of the official policies on desertion throughout various conflicts. He explores how these policies were developed, implemented, and the significant impact they had on soldiers' lives. By examining the Revolutionary War, the Civil War, World Wars I and II, the Vietnam War, and the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan, Fantina offers a broad historical context that helps readers grasp how desertion and the military's responses have evolved over time.

One of the most compelling aspects of Fantina's investigation is his examination of the military justice system. He uncovers the flaws and biases that have often led to harsh and disproportionate punishments for deserters.

Fantina also argues that the motivations for desertion are not fixed but have changed over time. He explores how different wars and military conflicts have presented unique challenges that have influenced soldiers' decisions to desert. For example, during the Civil War, many soldiers deserted due to extreme hardships such as inadequate supplies, harsh weather, and brutal battlefield conditions. In contrast, during the Vietnam War, political dissent and opposition to the war itself became significant factors in driving desertion.

Additionally, Fantina situates desertion within the broader context of American history and society. He examines how cultural attitudes toward war, honor, and duty have shaped public perceptions of deserters and how these perceptions have been manipulated by political leaders to serve their own ends. The book explores the role of propaganda, media portrayals, and public opinion in creating and sustaining the stigma associated with desertion.

Desertion and the American Soldier: 1776-2006 is an essential read for anyone interested in military history, American history, or the human experience of war. Fantina offers a nuanced and thought-provoking perspective on a topic that is often oversimplified or overlooked. His work is not just a historical account but a call to understand and address the systemic issues within the military that continue to lead soldiers to desert. By shedding light on this often-taboo subject, Fantina encourages readers to engage in a deeper and more critical examination of the true costs of war and the burdens placed on those who serve.

This book is a vital resource for historians, military professionals, and anyone seeking to understand the complexities of desertion and the profound impact it has had on the lives of American soldiers throughout history. Fantina's comprehensive analysis and compassionate approach make Desertion and the American Soldier: 1776-2006 a significant contribution to the study of military history and the ongoing conversation about the ethics of war and service.

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Top reviews from the United States

  • Reviewed in the United States on November 6, 2006
    This book provides much needed discussion on what has always been a heated political/emotional issue - desertion from the military. While desertion has commonly been attributed to cowardice and lack of moral character, Robert Fantina thoughtfully discusses the larger issues, physical and emotional, that would compel a soldier to go AWOL. Some causes that stand out include: substandard supplies and lodging, inferior leadership, and personal disagreement with how the war is being conducted. Causes that are less obvious to the public,but no less deadly, include mistreatment of the soldier by the military itself.

    Fantina documents the causes of desertion in each of the major conflicts through US history. Included are extracts from letters of soldiers who chose to desert, and details of the subsequent treatment of these men and women. These stories are not included in our general history texts; and as such, an important face of war, namely the cost to our soldiers, is never fully discussed.

    This book brings a needed human face to a popular, but politically driven caricature Understanding the causes of desertion, is not an easy thing to come to grips with. But if we are to better understand the situation of all our soldiers past and present, we must look beyond the propaganda and see the nitty gritty details of their lives.
    12 people found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on July 9, 2006
    I know this book was coming and looked forward to it with great anticipation. Fortunaley I was not disappointed.

    I knew little of nor had considered desertion from any military. Fantina offers some well thought out insights into what, beyond the reasons the powers that be give, my motivate someone to leave military service. Fantina does it by chronicling all the major wars of the US military.

    The book is quick and to the point. The writing on what could be a very dry topic is not dry but quite an accessable read.

    If he wrote the book to get the reader to think about the military and its role in a democratic society Fantina succeeded.
    8 people found this helpful
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Top reviews from other countries

  • marsy
    5.0 out of 5 stars Essential Reading, especially for info on Vietnam War
    Reviewed in Japan on April 16, 2013
    Essential reading for anybody interested in U.S. military, experience of enlisted men in training, relationship between enlisted men and officers, and why we have ended up with the kind of army (largely unaccountable to the president, Congress or the American people) we have today. Contains essential information--for example, on 'fragging'--not found in conventional military histories of Vietnam War.