Managing the Media in the India-Burma War, 1941-1945

The book explores how the media was used by the armed forces during the India-Burma campaigns of WWII to project a positive image of the war to domestic and international audiences. It discusses how soldiers were able to access newspapers and radio broadcasts, how the media maintained troop morale, and how the military recognized the media as a valuable arm of warfare. It also discusses how the media created the 'Forgotten Army syndrome' and India's role in the Second World War in relation to social, economic, and political developments.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 21 March 2024
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

This captivating book delves into the intricate ways in which the media was harnessed by the armed forces during the India-Burma campaigns of World War II. It sheds light on the strategic efforts undertaken to project a positive image of the war to both domestic and international audiences, often overshadowed by neglect or misunderstanding. By examining how soldiers gained access to newspapers and radio broadcasts that recounted the stories of the campaigns they were actively engaged in, Managing the Media in the India-Burma War unveils the profound impact that the media had on sustaining troop morale. Moreover, it highlights the military's recognition of the media's potential as a valuable tool in warfare.

Through detailed analysis, Philip Woods sheds light on how troops reacted to reports of their operations, ultimately contributing to the emergence of the "Forgotten Army syndrome" during the latter stages of the Burma campaign. The book, while primarily focused on the British Media, also provides examples from the United States and India, including the contributions of Indian war correspondents. It explores India's role in the Second World War in the context of social, economic, and political developments of the time.

By examining India and Burma at a pivotal juncture in their journey toward independence, this book offers a fresh perspective on a well-known military conflict. It uncovers the various constraints and influences exerted on the media during wartime, while also establishing a strong connection between the campaigns and India's crucial contributions to WWII. Through its comprehensive exploration, Managing the Media in the India-Burma War provides valuable insights into the complex interplay between media, military, and historical events, contributing to a deeper understanding of this significant chapter in world history.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350271678