The Forgotten Sacrifices
World War I, often referred to as the Great War, was one of the deadliest conflicts in history, involving countries from all corners of the globe. India, then under British colonial rule, contributed significantly to the war effort. Approximately 1.5 million Indian soldiers volunteered to serve in the British Indian Army. These brave men left their homes and families behind to fight for a cause that was not their own.
Their contributions to the war were immense. Indian soldiers served in various theatres of war, including the Western Front, the Middle East, Africa, and even the Italian Front. They played a crucial role in several key battles and campaigns. Yet, their sacrifices and valour have often gone unnoticed or been overshadowed by the broader narrative of the war.
Broken Promises
The sacrifices made by Indian soldiers and their families during World War I were not met with the recognition and support they deserved. Many Indian families were promised compensation and support by the British government in exchange for their sons' and husbands' service. Unfortunately, these promises often went unfulfilled.
After the war, the families of Indian soldiers who had lost their lives or were injured faced economic hardships without the promised support. The contributions of Indian soldiers were largely overlooked, and their families struggled to make ends meet. This injustice is a dark chapter in history, and it's a part of the story that must not be forgotten.
The Capture of Berlin: The Final Assault of World War II and the Inception of the Cold War
Preamble
The European theatre of World War II reached its zenith with the capture of Berlin in April-May 1945. The geopolitical restructuring of post-war Europe was initiated by this pivotal event, which also signalled the imminent collapse of Nazi Germany. The Soviet Union was the initial Allied nation to enter and capture Berlin, while Western Allied forces, which included American, British, and French personnel, advanced from the west. In this article, the strategic decisions made by the Allied forces, the profound implications of Berlin's capture on the post-war world order, and the intricate details of the Battle of Berlin are examined, with a particular emphasis on the overlooked contributions and subsequent marginalisation of Indian soldiers.