Ellen LaMotte
Ellen Newbold La Motte (1873–1961) was an American nurse,
journalist, and author best known for her impactful contributions to anti-war
literature during World War I. Born in Louisville, Kentucky, La Motte
volunteered as a nurse during the war, an experience that profoundly influenced
her writing. Her firsthand exposure to the grim realities of the conflict
fueled her commitment to shedding light on the untold stories of suffering. La Motte gained widespread recognition for her
groundbreaking collection, "The Backwash of War" (1916), which
challenged the prevailing narratives of heroism and patriotism by providing an
unflinching portrayal of the war's brutal consequences. This collection,
controversial at the time, showcased her courage to confront the uncomfortable
truths surrounding warfare. Beyond her literary contributions, La Motte's activism
extended to public health and social issues. She was an advocate for women's
rights and campaigned for public health reforms. Despite the relative obscurity
that later surrounded her works, Ellen N. La Motte's legacy endures as a
pioneer in war literature, offering a unique and critical perspective that
continues to resonate with readers and scholars interested in the human cost of
conflict. |
The Backwash of War
"The Backwash of War: The Human Wreckage of the Battlefield as Witnessed by an American Hospital Nur..
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