In At War on the Gothic Line, historian Christian Jennings examines the intense Allied campaign to breach Germany’s formidable mountain defenses in northern Italy during 1944–45. This well-researched narrative unfolds through firsthand perspectives of thirteen soldiers from seven nations, bringing depth to a crucial yet underexplored theater of World War II.
Readers follow a diverse cast: a Japanese-American officer leading his men in perilous assaults, Canadian snipers familiar with rugged terrain, and Indian troops navigating moonlit mountain paths. Jennings explores both acts of valor and the challenges of discrimination within the allied ranks, offering a balanced, human-centered view of combat.
Inside you’ll discover:
- Strategic insights into the Gothic Line’s defenses
- Personal accounts from American, Canadian, Indian, and other troops
- An exploration of wartime camaraderie and cultural tensions
By weaving tactical detail with vivid personal stories, this account illuminates one of WWII’s most significant campaigns and honors the soldiers who fought uphill against daunting odds.