American History Resources on War and Conflict

The early 20th century saw tensions rise across Europe, erupting in war after the death of the Archduke of Austria-Hungary in the summer of 1914. While initially left out of this war, the United States entered World War I in April of 1917 following attacks on passenger ships, most notably the RMS Lusitania, and an intercepted telegram between Germany and Mexico. World War I ended with the Armistice peace on the eleventh hour of November 11, 1918. These months of conflict saw many Americans sent to Europe where their experiences were detailed through letters, photographs, and other materials sent home to family members. This section will help direct research on the experiences of Americans both at home and abroad during this time period.

Listed below are some recommended catalog key terms for searching for military history during the early 20th century. Full steps on how to use these key terms can be found on this LibGuide's homepage.

First World War
World War I

Listed below are some recommended subject headings for searching for military history during the early 20th century.. Full steps on how to use these subject terms can be found on this LibGuide's homepage.

Military decorations -- United States.
Military training camps -- United States.
United States. Army. Field Artillery, 140th. Division, 39th.
United States -- History -- 1901-1953.
United States -- History, Military -- 20th century.
United States. Army. Signal Corps.
Veterans -- Medical care -- United States.
World War, 1914-1918.
World War, 1914-1918 -- Destruction and pillage
World War, 1939-1945 -- Europe -- In motion pictures.
World War, 1914-1918 -- Europe -- Photographs.
World War, 1914-1918 -- France.
World War, 1914-1918 -- France -- Participation, American.
World War, 1914-1918 -- Medical care.
World War, 1914-1918 -- Participation, Female.
World War, 1914-1918 -- Personal narratives, American.
World War, 1914-1918 -- Veterans -- United States.

A few of the collections held by LSU Libraries Special Collections are listed below. Additional collections may be found utilizing the subject headings listed in the sections above. 

Books and other published materials

Manuscript collections

Additional resources on WWI may be located at the following link.