Adam Prime will speak on 'The Indian Army, the Great War, and the Question of Manpower'. The Indian Army went from 240,000 men in 1914 to 1.3 million in 1918. This talk explores how enlistment and training were changing not only to incorporate many more recruits but also people traditionally not recruited at all. Officers were a challenge, as new officer cadets needed not only the military training but also the linguistic skills to command Indian soldiers. We explore how this was resolved, primarily by drawing from new and varying pools of potential officers. Ultimately, the logistical difficulties were overcome as a significantly enlarged Indian Army went into the field in all the major theatres of the Great War.
Doors open c13.30 and we do ask for a donation of £4.00 onthe door to cover room hire etc. All members and guests are most welcome to join us.