Liberating Libya: British Diplomacy and War in the Desert

The book explores British involvement in Libya since 1692, covering four eras: Italian invasion, World War, Western Desert Campaign, and recent events. It sheds new light on the Senussi Campaign, Duke of Westminster's rescue of British PoWs, and Colonel Milo Talbot's efforts to establish British influence with Arab leadership. The book also discusses the 2011 revolution, the Line of Death era, and the current conflict and migration crisis.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 15 November 2021
Publisher: Casemate Publishers

The Arab Spring revolution in Libya, which culminated in the death of Colonel Gadaffi in October 2011, was marked by the chant "Free Libya!" that reverberated across the country. This book delves into the historical relationship between Britain and Libya, dating back to the first treaty signed with the rulers in Tripoli in January 1692. The book is organized into four distinct eras, each covering a different period in the country's history.

The first era encompasses the period leading up to the Italian invasion in 1911. It sheds light on British involvement in Libya during this time, including the Senussi Campaign and the Duke of Westminster's rescue of 100 British PoWs at Bir Hakkeim. The author also explores the story of Colonel Milo Talbot, who played a significant role in establishing British influence with Arab leadership but was never adequately rewarded for his efforts.

Even though hundreds of books have been written about the Western Desert Campaign, this book offers unpublished material that addresses contentious issues and provides insights into the dynamics of command in the desert. The final part of the book focuses on Britain's efforts to establish Libya as an independent kingdom and the rise of nationalism that ultimately led to Gadaffi's coup in 1969. It also delves into the tense relationship between Britain and the Brotherly Leader during the Line of Death era and the subsequent rapprochement that preceded the 2011 revolution.

The final chapter brings the reader up to date with the current conflicts and challenges facing Libya. It provides an authoritative account of the 2011 revolution and its aftermath, highlighting the role played by various actors and the complexities of the political landscape in the country. Overall, this book offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of Britain's historical relationship with Libya, shedding new light on the country's complex history and its role in the region.

Weight: 572g
Dimension: 161 x 235 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781636240824