A. R. Martin Afghan and Punjabi wars letterbook, 1880-1911 bulk 1880-1892.

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A. R. Martin Afghan and Punjabi wars letterbook, 1880-1911 bulk 1880-1892.

http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/757840591

Collection comprises a letterbook (35 pgs.) Martin maintained for letters he sent mainly during his participation in the Afghan War during 1879-1880 and the Miranzai Expedition in 1891. In addition to descriptions of engagements, Martin provides a few sketches of scenery and topographical maps for battles, along with notes on the troops' pastimes, housing, provisions, and the impact of weather conditions on their activities. Throughout he gives his opinion freely on the conduct of the war and battles and on the contributions of Indian troops. Of the Afghan War he writes, "They [Brit. gov't] mean to get us out of the country somehow--The whole business has been a great mistake and one feels as if 2 years of one's life has been wasted. We have lost several fine men, turned the kingdom of Afghanistan topsy turvy & I suppose we shall leave it miserably & in a state of anarchy. This is a dreadful thing for Old England" (p. 16). Regarding Indian troops, he concludes, "The old feeling about looking down on Native Reg[iments] is wearing out fast. The Native has proved himself to be a very good man in many cases & I think that now we are on a somewhat dangerous footing. It is perhaps just as well that Englishmen should feel that they are better than any one else. I know I feel it and always mean to." (p. 31). Items laid-in include newspaper clippings (1880, 1891) on his military service; battles, including his sketch of the Miranzai battle published in the Illustrated London News; and relationships between British and Indian troops. Also laid-in his handwritten notes regarding his military service and promotions (1879-1892), as well as his admittance cards to the Durbar commemorating the coronation of King George V and Queen Mary as Emperor and Empress of India (1911).

17 items (0.8 lin. ft.)

Duke University Libraries, Duke University Library; Perkins Library

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SNAC Resource ID: 8144534

Duke University Libraries, Duke University Library; Perkins Library

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