A.G.M. The Young Lawrence

Lawrence of Arabia’s exploits during the Arab Revolt are well documented, both in print and on the silver screen. Less explored, however, is his profound sense of betrayal at the fate of the Arab nations following the First World War and the 1919 Versailles settlement.

What stirred such powerful emotions in this studious young man? What experiences, friendships and encounters awakened his deep fascination with Arabia and its people, inspiring him to embrace their hopes and aspirations?

To understand Lawrence, we must look beyond the legendary hero and discover the man beneath: his idealism, loyalties and growing affection for the Arab world, and the anguish he felt at what he saw as the betrayal of a people whose cause he had made his own.

Our speaker Jonathan Dale, is a regular attendee at our Branch, and is Chair of the WFA Birmingham Branch.

Jon’s passion for the Great War began with a school book prize, The Unreturning Army. That early spark led him to join the Western Front Association in 2000 and later chair its Birmingham Branch — as Jon amusingly puts it, “caught in the net of no one else to do it”!

In this fascinating talk, Jon explores the man behind the legend, uncovering the remarkable individual who became an enduring icon — Thomas Edward Lawrence, better known as Lawrence of Arabia.

All are welcome to attend this event, and everyone is guaranteed a warm welcome with the doors opening at 6.30pm ready for a 7pm start.