“We” · Chapters
Chapters explained
Chapter companions for “We” by Charles A. Lindbergh.
Chapter 1
Dedication
The chapter is a dedication page where Charles Lindbergh honors his mother and the key individuals whose confidence and foresight made the flight of the Spirit of St. Louis possible.
Chapter 2
Frontispiece
The chapter opens with the single word 'We', setting a tone of collective identity and shared endeavor.
Chapter 3
We
The chapter explores the collective spirit and shared effort behind Lindbergh's transatlantic flight, emphasizing the unity of purpose among his supporters and the broader public.
Chapter 4
I: Boyhood and Early Flights
Charles Lindbergh recounts his birth in Detroit, his family's Swedish immigrant heritage, his father's political career, and his mother's academic background. He describes his irregular schooling, early fascination with aviation, and his entry into barnstorming and wing-walking in 1922. The chapter details his first parachute jump, barnstorming adventures across Kansas, Colorado, Wyoming, and Montana with H. J. Lynch, and a solo boat journey down the Yellowstone River.
Chapter 5
II: My First Plane
Charles Lindbergh recounts his purchase of a surplus Curtiss Jenny for $500, his first solo flight, and his early cross-country flying experiences, including barnstorming in Mississippi.
Chapter 6
III: Barnstorming Experiences
Lindbergh recounts his early barnstorming days, including flying with his father and mother, the challenges of making a living as a barnstormer, and his decision to apply for Army Air Service training. He describes various flights, a moonlight flight with a skeptical host, a minor crash in Kansas, and a test of Bud Gurney's homemade parachute. The chapter highlights the risks, perseverance, and modest profits of early aviation.
Chapter 7
IV: Heading South
Lindbergh and Leon Klink embark on a barnstorming journey south from Missouri, facing mechanical failures, soft fields, and a crash at Pensacola. After repairs, they continue toward Texas, where Lindbergh must report to Brooks Field for flight training.
Chapter 8
Training at Brooks Field
Charles Lindbergh arrives at Brooks Field on March 15, 1924, and enlists as a Flying Cadet. He describes the rigorous training environment, the camaraderie among the 104 cadets, and the high washout rate—only 18 of the original class eventually receive their wings. The chapter details the early days of instruction, including learning maneuvers like the 'three sixty' and 'one eighty,' the soloing process, and the daily routine of a cadet. Lindbergh reflects on the demanding yet rewarding nature of Army flight training, which he considers among the best in the world.
Chapter 9
Receiving a Pilot's Wings
Lindbergh describes his transfer to Kelly Field in September 1924, where he and fellow cadets transitioned from basic flight training to advanced military aviation. They flew De Havilands and other service aircraft, practiced formation flying, spot landings, and gunnery exercises. Despite close calls and strict oversight, Lindbergh reflects on the camaraderie, risk-taking, and love of flying that defined the pursuit pilot's experience. The chapter concludes with graduation: only 18 of the original 104 cadets earned their wings and commissions as second lieutenants.
Chapter 10
VII: I Join the Air Mail
Lindbergh recounts his barnstorming travels, his second emergency parachute jump, his work as a flight instructor for Robertson Aircraft Corporation, and the preparations for the St. Louis–Chicago air mail route. He also describes his involvement with the Missouri National Guard and a cross-country race attempt that ended in mechanical failure.
Chapter 11
VIII: Two Emergency Jumps
Lindbergh recounts the challenges of early air mail service, including night flying, fog, and ice hazards. He describes two emergency parachute jumps caused by fuel exhaustion and fog, highlighting the dangers faced by mail pilots. The chapter also includes reflections on the future of commercial aviation and the need for government support versus private enterprise.
Chapter 12
IX: San Diego–St. Louis–New York
Lindbergh details the origins of the New York–Paris flight, sparked by Raymond Orteig's 1919 prize. He describes his decision to pursue a single-motored monoplane, the construction of the Spirit of St. Louis by Ryan Airlines, and his meticulous navigation planning. The chapter covers the test flights in San Diego, the flight to St. Louis, and the subsequent leg to New York, emphasizing the collaborative effort and technical considerations behind the venture.
Chapter 13
X: New York to Paris
Lindbergh describes the final preparations and takeoff from Roosevelt Field on May 20, 1927, the flight across the Atlantic, and his overwhelming reception in Paris, Belgium, and England. He recounts the chaos at Le Bourget, the kindness of Ambassador Herrick, and his gratitude for the warm welcomes. The chapter concludes with his return to America aboard the cruiser Memphis and his emotional homecoming in Washington, New York, and St. Louis.
Chapter 14
Publisher’s Note
The publisher explains that Lindbergh found it difficult to write about his own triumphant welcome in Europe and America, so he agreed to have the story told in the third person by a chosen writer, allowing inclusion of speeches and details he would have been reluctant to use himself.
Chapter 15
Author's Note
Charles Lindbergh introduces Fitzhugh Green as the author of an account of his receptions, expressing trust in Green's judgment and his ability to capture the spirit of Lindbergh's efforts for aviation.
Chapter 16
A Little of What the World Thought of Lindbergh
This chapter presents a collection of international perspectives and reactions to Charles Lindbergh's transatlantic flight, highlighting the global admiration and diplomatic goodwill generated by his achievement.
Chapter 17
I: Paris
Lindbergh lands in Paris after his solo transatlantic flight, sparking an unprecedented wave of mass emotion and international goodwill. The chapter details his reception, the diplomatic thaw between France and America, and the beginning of the 'phenomenon of Lindbergh' as he is celebrated by officials and the public.
Chapter 18
II: Brussels
Lindbergh's brief but impactful visit to Brussels, where he meets King Albert and Queen Elizabeth, receives a gold medal from Burgomaster Max, and delivers a speech on aviation's future. He also pays tribute to American soldiers at a cemetery near Ghent before departing for London.
Chapter 19
III: London
Lindbergh flies from Brussels to Croyden, England, where he is met by a massive crowd. He meets with British officials, including King George V, who awards him the Royal Air Force Cross, and the Prince of Wales. He attends various ceremonies and dinners, including a Memorial Day service at Westminster Abbey. After a delay due to weather, he flies to Paris and then to Cherbourg, where he boards the U.S.S. Memphis for his return to America.
Chapter 20
IV: Washington
Lindbergh returns to America aboard the cruiser Memphis, arriving in Washington, D.C. on June 11, 1927, to an unprecedented welcome. He is greeted by high officials, his mother, and massive crowds. The chapter details the official ceremonies, including a dinner with President Coolidge, a speech at the National Press Club, and the presentation of a special air mail stamp. Lindbergh's modesty and simplicity are highlighted as key to the public's emotional response.
Chapter 21
V: New York
Lindbergh's four-day celebration in New York City is described, including a massive water parade, a ticker-tape parade up Broadway, speeches by Mayor Walker, and a ceremony at the Shaft of Eternal Light. He receives the Orteig Prize and endures a relentless schedule of banquets and public appearances, culminating in a dawn flight to Washington and back.
Chapter 22
St. Louis
Lindbergh flies to St. Louis, where he is greeted by massive crowds and a parade. He issues a statement expressing gratitude to the air mail service. The chapter also notes the immense public response, including millions of letters and telegrams, and reflects on Lindbergh's modesty and the global adoration he received.
Chapter 23
Endnotes
The endnotes clarify that the flying experiences described in the book occurred during the postwar period before aviation regulations existed, and that modern commercial flying conditions are far safer. They note that risky events were undertaken only by pilots and aeronautical professionals, and that commercial air transport has since developed to a level of safety comparable to other travel modes.
Chapter 24
List of Illustrations
A catalog of photographs and illustrations documenting Charles Lindbergh's early life, the construction and flight of the Spirit of St. Louis, and the subsequent celebrations and honors in Paris, London, Brussels, Washington D.C., New York, and St. Louis.
