Battles on the Tigris

In 1914 the British expedition to Mesopotamia set out with the modest ambition of protecting the oil concession in Southern Persia but, after numerous misfortunes, ended up capturing Baghdad and Northern Towns in Iraq.

Initially the mission was successful in seizing Basra but the British under Generals Nixon and Townshend, found themselves drawn North, becoming besieged by the Turks at Kut. After various failed relief attempts the British surrendered and the prisoners suffered appalling indignities and hardship, culminating in a death march to Turkey.

In 1917 General Maude was appointed C in C but, as usual in Iraq, policy kept changing. Hopes that the Russians would come into the war were dashed by the Revolution. Operations were further frustrated by the hottest of summers. Fighting against the Turks continued right up to the Armistice. The conduct of the Campaign was subject to a Commission of Inquiry which was highly critical of numerous individuals and the administrative arrangements.

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Some books that may interest you

Britannia's Navy on the West Coast of North America 1812 - 1914 By: Barry Gough	A History Of The British Cavalry 1816-1919 Volume 8 By: Marquess of Anglesey	Caesar's Gallic Triumph By: Peter Inker
Armoured Cruiser Cressy By: Andrew Choong	Journal of the Waterloo Campaign By: Cavalie Mercer	War is War By: A M Burrage
My Father's Son By: Earl Haig	Killing Fields of Scotland By: R. J. M. Pugh	A Cruel Captivity By: Ellie Taylor