Soldiers as Workers: Class, employment, conflict and the nineteenth-century military

The book challenges the ruffians officered by gentlemen theory of most military histories and demonstrates how service in the ranks was not confined to 'the scum of the earth but included a cross section of 'respectable working class men. Common soldiers represent a huge unstudied occupational group, working as artisans, servants, and dealers, with pre-enlistment working-class attitudes and low-level class conflict. After training, most soldiers had time on their hands and were allowed to work at a wide variety of jobs, providing goods and services to their comrades.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 02 February 2021
Publisher: Liverpool University Press

The book delves into the intricate relationship between class and the British army during the period of industrialization, challenging the prevailing notion that the military was solely composed of gentlemen officers. It reveals that service in the ranks encompassed a diverse range of "respectable working-class men," rather than being limited to the "scum of the earth." Common soldiers, often overlooked in traditional military histories, represent a significant and understudied occupational group. These men came from various backgrounds, including artisans, servants, and dealers, and their pre-enlistment attitudes and experiences reflected the prevailing working-class attitudes of their time.

Despite their military service, soldiers maintained their connections to the working class after discharge. Military service became a significant phase of their careers and overall life experiences. Many soldiers continued to work in regimental tradesmen or skilled artificer roles, while others pursued opportunities as officers' servants or small business owners, providing goods and services to their comrades. Some, particularly Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs), who played a crucial role in running the army, achieved extraordinary careers that surpassed those available in civilian life.

The soldiers studied retained many aspects of their working-class way of life, evident in a contract culture reminiscent of civilian trade unions. Within the disciplined boundaries of the army, low-level class conflict emerged in various forms, including drinking, desertion, feigned illness, self-harm, strikes, and go-slows. The book explores these issues in depth, providing insights into the social dynamics and conflicts that existed within the military.

Furthermore, the book delves into more extreme manifestations of class conflict, such as mutinies, backchat, looting, fraternization, foreign service, suicide, and even the shooting of unpopular officers. It sheds light on the complex dynamics that shaped army life and the challenges faced by soldiers and officers alike during this period.

In conclusion, the book offers a fresh perspective on the British army during industrialization, challenging the traditional narratives and highlighting the importance of class in understanding the military's history. It sheds light on the experiences and struggles of common soldiers, who played a vital role in shaping the army and the society of their time. By examining the complex relationship between class and the military, the book provides valuable insights into the social and cultural dynamics of the period.

Weight: 390g
Dimension: 161 x 233 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800348974