The 32nd Division was a National Guard unit composed of volunteers from Michigan and Wisconsin. The Midwest Goes to War tells the story of the 32nd and its participation during the Great War in France. Following the formation, training, and deployment of the 32nd, the book gives a chronological account of the mobilization, transport, assumption of combat responsibilities, resumption of the offense that led to the eventual defeat of Germany, and the division's time spent in Germany as an occupation force. The Division fought in the major campaigns of 1918 and sustained many losses, yet always accomplished its mission. Numerous individual heroic exploits are examined as well as the tactical and strategic contributions of the 32nd.

Based on numerous personal accounts, diaries, and period publications, as well as recent works and extensive archival research, this book examines the influx of new units and personnel; it demonstrates the resumption of the mobile offensive, rejection of static defense, and celebrates the victories of the citizen soldier.