World War I in Africa: The Forgotten Conflict Among the European Powers

During World War I, the military campaigns in Africa were significant but often overlooked. This book explores the strategies, rivalries, and battles that shaped the war and had long-lasting consequences for the African continent and the British Empire.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 328 pages
Publication date: 07 February 2019
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The extensive military operations in Africa during World War I were among the most ambitious of the Great War. However, many histories have considered these campaigns as mere sidelights to the war on the Western Front. World War One in Africa offers a fresh perspective on the impact of the strategies employed by the German and Allied forces, as well as the intense rivalry between General Jan Christian Smuts, who confronted the German forces in East Africa, and General Lettow-Vorbeck, renowned as the sole German general to occupy British territory and whose troops emerged victorious at the end of the war. This book, drawing upon primary sources from British and South African archives, delves into the lives and battles of these influential figures, shedding light on their roles in shaping the outcome of the Great War and the future of the African continent and the British Empire.

The German military strategy in Africa during World War I was characterized by a series of ambitious campaigns aimed at gaining control of valuable resources and territories. The German forces launched a blitzkrieg-style offensive in East Africa, swiftly conquering vast swathes of territory and defeating the British and African forces. General Jan Christian Smuts, the commander of the British forces in East Africa, was tasked with countering the German advance. Smuts implemented a strategy of guerrilla warfare, using small, mobile units to harass and disrupt the German supply lines and inflict casualties on the German troops.

Despite the German numerical superiority and technological advantages, Smuts' tactics proved effective, and the German forces were eventually forced to withdraw from East Africa. However, the war in Africa was not over, as the German forces continued to fight in other parts of the continent. General Lettow-Vorbeck, a German general, was particularly notable for his successful campaigns in North Africa. Lettow-Vorbeck used a combination of defensive tactics and mobile warfare to repel the British and French forces, and his troops achieved several notable victories, including the Battle of Tafas.

Despite the German successes in Africa, the war ultimately ended in defeat for the Central Powers. The defeat of Germany and its allies in World War I had significant consequences for the African continent. The war led to the partitioning of Africa by European powers, with many African territories being colonized by European countries. This period of colonization would have a lasting impact on the political, economic, and social development of Africa, shaping the continent for generations to come.

In conclusion, the military campaigns in Africa during World War I were a significant part of the Great War. While they may have been overshadowed by the war on the Western Front, these campaigns had a profound impact on the African continent and the British Empire. The strategies employed by the German and Allied forces, as well as the intense rivalry between General Jan Christian Smuts and General Lettow-Vorbeck, played a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the war and the future of the African continent. The legacy of these campaigns continues to be felt today, and it is important to remember the sacrifices made by the soldiers and civilians who fought in these battles.

Weight: 400g
Dimension: 141 x 217 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781788314442