The Polar Bear Expedition: The Heroes of America's Forgotten Invasion of Russia, 1918-1919

Name: The Polar Bear Expedition: The Heroes of America's Forgotten Invasion of Russia, 1918-1919
Price: 18.14 USD
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.3 (392 reviews)

4.3 of 5 Stars: Arctic & Antarctica - The Polar Bear Expedition: The Heroes of America's Forgotten Invasion of Russia, 1918-1919

392

$18.14

Buying Options

Description

Book Synopsis: In the brutally cold winter of 1919, 5,000 Americans battled the Red Army 600 miles north of Moscow. We have forgotten. Russia has not.

“AN EXCELLENT BOOK.” —Wall Street Journal • “INCREDIBLE.” —John U. Bacon • “EXCEPTIONAL.” —Patrick K. O’Donnell • “A MASTER OF NARRATIVE HISTORY.” —Mitchell Yockelson • “GRIPPING.” —Matthew J. Davenport • “FASCINATING, VIVID.” —Minneapolis Star Tribune

An unforgettable human drama deep with contemporary resonance, award-winning historian James Carl Nelson’s The Polar Bear Expedition draws on an untapped trove of firsthand accounts to deliver a vivid, soldier's-eye view of an extraordinary lost chapter of American history—the Invasion of Russia one hundred years ago during the last days of the Great War.

In the winter of 1919, 5,000 U.S. soldiers, nicknamed "The Polar Bears," found themselves hundreds of miles north of Moscow in desperate, bloody combat against the newly formed Soviet Union’s Red Army. Temperatures plummeted to sixty below zero. Their guns and their flesh froze. The Bolsheviks, camouflaged in white, advanced in waves across the snow like ghosts.

The Polar Bears, hailing largely from Michigan, heroically waged a courageous campaign in the brutal, frigid subarctic of northern Russia for almost a year. And yet they are all but unknown today. Indeed, during the Cold War, two U.S. presidents, Ronald Reagan and Richard Nixon, would assert that the American and the Russian people had never directly fought each other. They were spectacularly wrong, and so too is the nation's collective memory.

It began in August 1918, during the last months of the First World War: the U.S. Army's 339th Infantry Regiment crossed the Arctic Circle; instead of the Western Front, these troops were sailing en route to Archangel, Russia, on the White Sea, to intervene in the Russian Civil War. The American Expeditionary Force, North Russia, had been sent to fight the Soviet Red Army and aid anti-Bolshevik forces in hopes of reopening the Eastern Front against Germany. And yet even after the Great War officially ended in November 1918, American troops continued to battle the Red Army and another, equally formidable enemy, "General Winter," which had destroyed Napoleon's Grand Armee a century earlier and would do the same to Hitler's once invincible Wehrmacht.

More than two hundred Polar Bears perished before their withdrawal in July 1919. But their story does not end there. Ten years after they left, a contingent of veterans returned to Russia to recover the remains of more than a hundred of their fallen brothers and lay them to rest in Michigan, where a monument honoring their service still stands.

In the century since, America has forgotten the Polar Bears' harrowing campaign. Russia, notably, has not, and as Nelson reveals, the episode continues to color Russian attitudes toward the United States. At once epic and intimate, The Polar Bear Expedition masterfully recovers this remarkable tale at a time of new relevance.

Details

Step into the chilling and gripping tale of courage and sacrifice with The Polar Bear Expedition: The Heroes of America's Forgotten Invasion of Russia, 1918-1919. As historian James Carl Nelson unveils a forgotten chapter of American history, you'll embark on a journey among the snow-covered battlefield where 5,000 Americans, known as 'The Polar Bears,' valiantly fought against the Red Army in bone-chilling cold. Don't miss this exceptional narrative that brings to light the heroic deeds of those who braved the brutal winter of 1919. An unmissable read for history buffs and adventure enthusiasts alike!

Dive deep into the heart-wrenching drama of war with The Polar Bear Expedition. This enthralling account of the forgotten Invasion of Russia captures the essence of sacrifice, valor, and unwavering determination against all odds. With firsthand accounts and vivid storytelling, James Carl Nelson paints a vivid picture of the Polar Bears' fight for survival and honor. A tale that will leave you captivated and in awe of the heroes who risked it all for a cause bigger than themselves. Order your copy now and be transported back in time to witness this extraordinary saga!

Discover the untold story of the Polar Bears with this masterfully crafted narrative by acclaimed historian James Carl Nelson. The Polar Bear Expedition delves into the forgotten invasion of Russia, shedding light on the sacrifices and struggles of the brave soldiers who battled the Red Army amidst the harsh subarctic conditions. This book is a gripping reminder of the forgotten heroes who fought against all odds, their legacy etched into the annals of history. Immerse yourself in this captivating tale and relive the epic journey of the Polar Bears. Order now and embark on a riveting adventure through time!

Experience the historical masterpiece that is The Polar Bear Expedition: The Heroes of America's Forgotten Invasion of Russia, 1918-1919. James Carl Nelson takes you on a captivating journey through time, where you witness the incredible feats of the Polar Bears as they fought a relentless battle against the Red Army in the frigid wilderness of northern Russia. A must-read for anyone fascinated by war history, this book offers a vivid, soldier's-eye view of a forgotten chapter in American history. Uncover the bravery, sacrifice, and resilience of the unsung heroes who faced unimaginable challenges in the name of duty. Order your copy today and relive the astonishing tale of the Polar Bears!

Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore the riveting saga of the Polar Bears and their valiant efforts during America's forgotten invasion of Russia. The Polar Bear Expedition by James Carl Nelson will transport you to the harrowing winter of 1919, where 5,000 American soldiers embarked on a perilous mission against the formidable Red Army. Packed with compelling accounts and historical insights, this book is a thrilling tribute to the brave souls who fought with unparalleled courage in the face of extreme adversity. Immerse yourself in this gripping tale of heroism and honor by ordering your copy now!

Order Now and Dive into the Forgotten History of the Polar Bear Expedition!

See All Buying Options...

More Details...