America's Munitions 1917-1918

by Benedict Crowell

"America's Munitions 1917-1918" by Benedict Crowell is a historical account written shortly after World War I, likely in the early 20th century. The work provides a detailed examination of the production and logistics of munitions in the United States during the war effort against Germany. It addresses the complexity and scale of American military manufacturing in this period, emphasizing the extensive organizational efforts required to arm large troops effectively. The opening of the book introduces the historical context of America's entry into World War I, outlining the challenges faced in scaling up munitions production. It begins with a compelling description of the final moment of artillery activity on the front lines when the armistice was declared. Crowell explains the purpose of this report, addressing the need for public understanding of the munitions efforts and the various military branches involved. The narrative offers insight into the cooperation between government offices and the industrial sector, setting the stage for the subsequent chapters that will delve deeper into specific aspects of ordnance production, including the types of weapons manufactured and the logistical issues encountered.