Alvin C York

He didn’t want to go to war. He nearly refused to fight. And yet—he became one of the most decorated American soldiers of World War I.

In this episode of The Interesting People of History Podcast, we explore the remarkable and often contradictory life of Sergeant Alvin York—a poor farm boy from rural Tennessee, a devout pacifist, and the unlikely hero of one of WWI’s most daring battlefield moments.

From his early life in the Appalachian mountains to the trenches of France and the events of October 8, 1918, York’s story is one of faith, transformation, and quiet courage. But his journey didn’t end with medals and parades. After the war, York turned away from fortune and fame to focus on education, public service, and his small community.

Who was the man behind the myth? What drives someone to fight when everything inside them says not to? And why does his story still resonate today?