Arthur Currie was born on May 5, 1875, in the town of Napperton, Ontario, Canada. He was the son of William Garner Curry and Jane Patterson. Arthur was born Arthur Curry but later changed the spelling of his last name. Growing up, he attended public schools in British Columbia and eventually worked as a public school teacher before deciding to pursue a military career.
Arthur Currie's military career began when he enlisted in the Canadian militia in 1897. He quickly rose through the ranks and by the time World War I broke out, he was appointed commander of the 2nd Canadian Division. Currie went on to command four divisions of the Canadian Expeditionary Force's Unified Canadian Corps during the war, making a name for himself as a skilled military leader.
One of Currie's most notable achievements during the war was his leadership during the battles of Hill 70 and Canal du Nord. Despite facing pressure from his British military superiors, Currie stood by his alternate war strategies, which were ultimately successful in securing victory for the Canadian forces.
After World War I, Arthur Currie returned to Canada and became Vice Chancellor of Montreal's McGill University in 1920. He continued to be involved in military affairs, serving as the Inspector-General of the Canadian Army in 1920 and later as the commander of the Canadian Corps in 1921.
Arthur Currie is remembered as one of Canada's greatest war heroes. His leadership and strategic skills on the battlefield played a significant role in the success of the Canadian Expeditionary Force during World War I. His willingness to question authority and stand by his convictions set him apart as a military leader, earning him the respect and admiration of his troops and peers.
Arthur Currie's legacy lives on in Canadian military history, as a testament to his unwavering dedication to his country and his courage in the face of adversity. His story serves as an inspiration to future generations of soldiers, reminding them of the importance of leadership, integrity, and resilience in the face of challenges.