"Sisters in Arms charts the evolution of women in combat, from the Scythian warriors who inspired the Amazonian myth, to the passing soldiers and sailors of the eighteenth century, and on to the re-emergence of women as official members of the armed forces in the twentieth century. Author Julie Wheelwright traces our fascination with these forgotten heroines, using their own words, including official documents, diaries, letters and memoirs, to bring their experiences vividly to life. She examines their contemporary legacy and the current role of women in the armed forces, while calling into question the enduring relationship between masculinity and combat"-- Provided by publisher.

"This volume is based on material originally published as Amazons and Military Maids (1989)"--Title page verso. "This volume is based on material originally published as Amazons and Military Maids (1989). Updated, expanded and revised for this new publication"--Title page verso.

The persistence of a phenomenon -- The founding myth of the Amazons -- Enlisting -- Life among the men -- The denouement -- Back to Civvy Street -- The legacy -- Daughters of warriors -- Komsomol girls to Facebook icons.