Indian Soldiers in the First World War: Re-visiting a Global Conflict

This book explores the lives and social histories of Indian soldiers who fought in the First World War, focusing on their motivations, experiences, and lives after returning from service in Europe, Mesopotamia, East Africa, and Palestine. It examines the Indian support for the war for political concessions from the British government and its repercussions, and explores a variety of themes including material incentives, coercion and training, encounters with other societies, and the contributions of returned soldiers in Indian society. It will be useful to researchers and students of history, post-colonial studies, sociology, literature, and cultural studies, as well as those interested in military history, World War I, and colonial history.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 240 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the lives and social histories of Indian soldiers who bravely fought in the First World War. It offers a comprehensive perspective, focusing on their motivations, experiences, and post-war lives to present a complete picture of Indian participation in this global conflict. The book explores the Indian support for the war, driven by political concessions from the British government, and its impact on the lives of over one million Indian soldiers and laborers. It examines the social and cultural aspects of their service on foreign soil, highlighting their contributions, which often go unnoticed. The volume encompasses a range of themes, from the material incentives and coercion that transformed peasants into combatants to the encounters of traveling Indian soldiers with diverse societies. It also explores the contributions of returned soldiers to Indian society, shedding light on their experiences and the lasting impact of the war on their lives.

This book is a valuable resource for researchers and students of history, post-colonial studies, sociology, literature, and cultural studies. It also appeals to those with an interest in military history, World War I, and colonial history. By examining the experiences of Indian soldiers, this book contributes to our understanding of the complexities of colonialism, nationalism, and the impact of war on individuals and communities.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367695767