Fighting for the Empire? Britain’s Colonial African Armies, 1939-45

Description

This event available either at the venue or you can watch online via a webcast.

Hear from John Concagh as he highlights how soldiers from Africa were recruited, trained and mobilised during the Second World War.

At the outbreak of the Second World War, the armies of Britain’s African colonies comprised fewer than 15,000 men at arms. By the end of the conflict, over half a million Africans were serving in British uniform, with one fifth involved in active combat across East Africa, Madagascar and Burma.

In this fascinating talk, John Concagh will discuss the creation of this new colonial army from near-scratch, as the British government and the Army battled to overcome logistical difficulties, political constraints and the millstone of prejudice. Additionally, he will examine the consequences of that mobilisation on the final years of the British Empire.

About the speaker

John Concagh is a historian from London whose work focuses on the relationship between Britain’s African and Caribbean colonies and the challenges of the Second World War.

Date

Location

This event is available in person and online via webcast.

National Army Museum
Royal Hospital Road
London
SW3 4HT

Prices

Contact and Booking Details

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Disclaimer

The information and prices in this listing are presumed to be correct at the time of publishing, but please always check with the venue before making a special trip.

All images are supplied by the exhibition organiser.