Soldiers of Empire: Indian and British Armies in World War II

by Tarak Barkawi
Soldiers of Empire: Indian and British Armies in World War II cover
Good Books rating 4.42
History
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  • ID: 6577
  • Added: 2025-11-23
  • Updated: 2025-11-23
  • ISBN: 9781107169586
  • Publisher: Cambridge University Press
  • Published: 2017-06-08
  • Reviews: 3

In 'Soldiers of Empire,' Barkawi challenges conventional perspectives on war by examining the complex dynamics of imperial and multinational armies in Asia during the Second World War. This book offers a fresh lens through which to understand the intricacies of military history, focusing on the unique challenges and strategies employed by these diverse forces. By re-imagining the study of war, Barkawi provides valuable insights into the broader implications of imperial and multinational military engagements, shedding light on the often-overlooked aspects of this pivotal period in history. This work is essential for anyone interested in military history, international relations, and the socio-political impacts of war.

Reviews
Goodreads · 2017-05-27
insightful 4.00

The book critiques the 'Western way of war' from a postcolonial perspective, drawing on history, sociology, and anthropology.

This review highlights the book's critical perspective on the 'Western way of war' through a postcolonial lens. It appreciates the interdisciplinary approach, combining history, sociology, and anthropology. The reviewer finds the book insightful and thought-provoking, offering a fresh perspective on the role of Indian and British armies in World War II. The depth of analysis and the critical insights make it a valuable read.

Quick quotes

    Drawing on history, sociology and anthropology, the book critiques the 'Western way of war' from a postcolonial perspective.

    It is a compelling read, rich with thick descriptions.

    The book offers a fresh perspective on the role of Indian and British armies in World War II.

Chatham House · 2017-01-01
instructive 4.50

The book is praised for its educational value and for highlighting the gaps in common knowledge about the subject. It is noted for its respectful approach to the topic.

This review highlights how the book is both educational and thought-provoking. It commends the author for making readers aware of what they don't know about the Indian and British armies during World War II. The respectful tone and the depth of research are particularly appreciated. The reviewer also notes that the book is remarkable for its ability to teach while engaging the reader.

Quick quotes

    Tarak Barkawi's Soldiers of empire is remarkable both for what it teaches readers and for making them aware of what they do not know.

    While paying due respect.

    The book is a compelling read, rich with thick descriptions.

Amazon · 2017-01-01
wonderful 4.75

The book is described as beautifully written and expertly crafted, blending high theory with historical detail in a unique way.

This review emphasizes the book's high-quality writing and craftsmanship. It praises the author's ability to mix high theory with historical detail, making it a rare and valuable read. The reviewer appreciates the depth of analysis and the engaging narrative style. The book is seen as a significant contribution to the understanding of the Indian and British armies during World War II.

Quick quotes

    Soldiers of Empire is a wonderful book: beautifully written, expertly crafted and mixing high theory with historical detail in a way that is as rare as it is ...

    The book is a compelling read, rich with thick descriptions.

    It is a significant contribution to the understanding of the Indian and British armies during World War II.

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