Sons of France on parade in Paris

Sons of France on parade in Paris

18742

France did not desire this terrible war. It was thrust upon her. In order to prevent even the appearance of provocation, French troops were ordered on July 30, 1914, to retire ten kilometers from the German frontier, surrendering important advantages of terrain which were later utilized by the enemy. When war was seen to be inevitable, when the lives and liberties of the people were seen to be menaced by a merciless foe, when the very existence of the republic was in danger, the nation rose as one man with a fervor of patriotism that is indescribable. Crowds marched through the streets of Paris singing the, “Marseilleise," the national hymn of France, while women and children, foreseeing the sorrow and death to come stood on the sidewalks weeping, Men rushed to the colors by the hundreds of thousands to offer up their lives as a sacrifice for France. The proud aristocrat and the humble peasant were stirred by the same impulse, to fight, and, if need be, to die for their country. When peace came with victory, again there was the sight of marching men in the cities of France. As they swung along in their horizon blue uniforms and brass helmets, seasoned soldiers who had won the greatest victory in all time, it was a different army from the one that rushed to colors. The years of struggle have left their indelible mark upon them. This great crowd in front of the Madeleine are torn with contending emotions –joy for the victorious and sorrow for those others who helped to win but who never came back.

1 stereograph : b&w

1 gelatine silver print stereograph (8 x 15 cm) mounted on card (9 x 18 cm)

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World War through the stereoscope