"As the driving force behind the Allied effort in World War I, France willingly shouldered the heaviest burden. In this book, Robert Doughty explains how and why France assumed this role and offers new insights into French strategy and operational methods." "Using extensive archival research, Doughty explains why France pursued a multi-front strategy and why it launched numerous operations as part of that strategy. He also casts new light on France's efforts to develop successful weapons and methods and the attempts to use them in operations." -- From the book jacket.

1. The transformation of the French army -- 2. The war of movement, 1914 -- 3. Siege warfare, 1914-1915 -- 4. An offensive strategy, May-October 1914-1915 -- 5. The search for strategic alternatives, 1915-1916 -- 6. A strategy of attrition -- 7. A strategy of decisive battle, early 1917 -- 8. A strategy of "healing" and defense, late 1917 -- 9. Responding to a German offensive, spring 1918 -- 10. A strategy of opportunism -- Conclusion : the "misery" of victory.