The British West Indies Regiment: Race and Colour on the Western Front

The West Indies Regiment played a significant role in the First World War, but their contribution was often overlooked due to racial prejudice. Despite this, the soldiers showed loyalty to the British Empire and a growing understanding of political ideas and liberal democracy. The regiment's experience in the war also contributed to a sense of West Indian identity and a desire for political advancement.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 04 October 2023
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

The West Indian experience during World War I was a complex and multifaceted phenomenon that intertwined military, political, cultural, and social aspects. The war served as a powerful catalyst for the development of a West Indian identity and a desire for political advancement. However, this desire was not limited to independence from the British Empire but also included the establishment of a West Indian Dominion, akin to the Dominions of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and South Africa.

The political and economic status of the West Indies islands played a significant role in the recruitment of colored contingents. Work was scarce, and many individuals saw enlistment as a means of improving their circumstances. Additionally, the cultural concept of manliness and empire status, shared by King George V, was a major impetus for West Indians to serve with white British soldiers. Despite government pressure to exclude them, the West Indies Regiment was formed and saw limited action in Egypt, Mesopotamia, and on the Western Front.

However, the regiment's contribution to the war was not without its challenges. The West Indies Regiment was small, and its actions were largely limited to Egypt and Mesopotamia. Furthermore, the regiment was notably omitted from the Victory Parade in 1919, highlighting the ingrained racialism and color prejudice of British society and the British Army. This omission was particularly insensitive given the sacrifices made by the West Indian soldiers and their contributions to the war effort.

The West Indian experience during World War I was a testament to the complex and multifaceted nature of the conflict. It highlighted the struggles of individuals and communities to assert their identity and achieve political and social advancement within the context of a global empire. The regiment's contributions to the war were significant, and its omission from the Victory Parade in 1919 was a painful reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by people of color in British society.

Weight: 354g
Dimension: 163 x 241 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399067690