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Address from France

John J. Pershing

A recorded speech in which Pershing addresses Americans at home while commanding forces in France during World War I.

This is a recording of Pershing's own voice addressing Americans while he commanded the AEF in France.

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John J. Pershing, "Address from France," Allied Headquarters, Chaumont, France.

About this source

What it is

This is an audio recording of John J. Pershing delivering an 'Address from France,' made at Allied Headquarters in Chaumont, France, during the war. In it he speaks directly to Americans back home about the army fighting on their behalf.

Why it matters

Hearing Pershing's actual voice connects students to a leader usually known only through photographs and documents. The address shows how military leaders used their own words to keep morale and support strong among the public at home.

Look closer

  • What tone does Pershing use when speaking to people far away from the fighting?
  • Why would a general record a message instead of only sending written reports?
  • What might this message leave out about the realities of the war?

This speech is part of the curated material that grounds the AI version of General John J. Pershing on Humy.ai — when students ask about related events, the AI can quote it and cite it.

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