Underdogs the making of the modern Marine Corps /

O'Connell, Aaron B., 1973-

Underdogs the making of the modern Marine Corps / Aaron B. O'Connell. - Cambridge, Mass. : Harvard University Press, (c)2012. - 1 online resource (xiii, 381 pages) illustrations, map.

Includes bibliographies and index.

A harsh and spiritual unity -- The privates' war and the homefront in the 1940s -- The politicians and the guerrillas -- Forgetting Korea -- First to fight in the 1950s -- Rise of the amphibious force-in-readiness -- Conclusion: Marine Corps culture since 1965.

"The Marine Corps has always considered itself a breed apart. Since 1775, America's smallest armed service has been suspicious of outsiders and deeply loyal to its traditions. Marines believe in nothing more strongly than the Corps' uniqueness and superiority, and this undying faith in its own exceptionalism is what has made the Marines one of the sharpest, swiftest tools of American military power. Along with unapologetic self-promotion, a strong sense of identity has enabled the Corps to exert a powerful influence on American politics and culture. Aaron O'Connell focuses on the period from World War II to Vietnam, when the Marine Corps transformed itself from America's least respected to its most elite armed force."--Provided by publisher.



9780674067448


United States. Marine Corps --History--20th century.
United States. Marine Corps --Military life--History--20th century.


Sociology, Military--History--United States--20th century.


Electronic Books.

VE23 / .U534 2012