Why Armenia Should Be Free: Armenia's Rôle in the Present War

by Armen Garo

"Why Armenia Should Be Free: Armenia's Rôle in the Present War" by Armen Garo is a historical account written in the early 20th century, specifically during the tumultuous period of World War I. The book discusses the plight of Armenians during the war, detailing their resistance against both Turkish oppression and Russian neglect, while advocating for the recognition and independence of Armenia in the post-war world. It aims to highlight Armenia's significant contributions to the Allied cause during the conflict and argues that the struggle for Armenian freedom is emblematic of a broader fight for justice and democracy. In this work, Armen Garo recounts the promises made to the Armenian people by both Turkey and Russia at the start of the war and the subsequent betrayals that led to the tragic loss of over a million Armenian lives during the genocide. He emphasizes the bravery of the Armenians in defending themselves against Turkish forces while fighting alongside their allies, often in perilous conditions and without adequate support. Through a series of military engagements, Garo illustrates how the Armenians actively contributed to the war effort, even as they faced devastating massacres. The book culminates in a heartfelt plea for the establishment of an independent Armenian state, asserting that the recognition of Armenian rights would signify a triumph of justice over imperialism and oppression in the new world order emerging after the war.