Major General Orde Wingate, DSO and two bars, who had created and personally led the Chindits (commandos, from the Burmese word for a griffin) was killed in an air accident in March 1944, at the height of the second Chindit campaign. He was highly praised, especially by General Slim. But by 1956, Slim was dismissive of him in Defeat into Victory, and the Official British History in 1961 was viciously critical. What happened to change minds so completely? David Rooney examines the life and achievement of a maverick soldier ...
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Major General Orde Wingate, DSO and two bars, who had created and personally led the Chindits (commandos, from the Burmese word for a griffin) was killed in an air accident in March 1944, at the height of the second Chindit campaign. He was highly praised, especially by General Slim. But by 1956, Slim was dismissive of him in Defeat into Victory, and the Official British History in 1961 was viciously critical. What happened to change minds so completely? David Rooney examines the life and achievement of a maverick soldier who inspired loyalty and devotion in some, hostility in others. He presents facts that thoughtful, diligent research has uncovered, to leave a broader impression of Wingate's colourful career. The result is an intriguing portrait of a military mind of daring originality, deserving of a better judgement in military history.
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Seller's Description:
This is an ex-library book and may have the usual library/used-book markings inside. This book has hardback covers. In good all round condition. Dust jacket in good condition. Please note the Image in this listing is a stock photo and may not match the covers of the actual item, 700grams, ISBN: 9781854092045.
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Seller's Description:
Very Good in Very Good jacket. This text provides an assessment of Orde Wingate, a military strategist in Africa, the Middle East and Burma. It highlights how the history of a prominent individual may be influenced by human bias and personality feuds.
In this book Mr. Rooney attempts to re-assess the contribution made by Orde Wingate and the Chindits to victory in the Burma Theater of World War Two. Soon after the war, following publication of Slim's memoir, "Defeat Into Victory," and the "Official History of the War with Japan" both Wingate and the activities of his "Special Force" came under severe criticism from the British military establishment. Rooney's book urges contemporary historians toward a more balanced assessment of both the man and the Chindit operations of 1943 and 1944. Nicely done.
