533
edits
Changes
Jump to navigation
Jump to search
→Army: Rajah from Tipperary
This small, prolifically illustrated book outlines medals issued to British soldiers and sailors who were involved in action around the world. As the HEIC began the habit of issuing general campaign medals examples of several of these are pictured. Whether one wants to identify a medal inherited from an ancestor or see what an ancestor's campaign medal would have looked like this title is a useful starting point.
* Hennessy, Maurice
''The rajah from Tipperary''.
Sevenoaks, Kent: New English Library, 1972
This little book (under 200 pages) relates the rise and fall of the inimitable George Thomas (1756-1802), an Irish mercenary who was leader of a large contingent of soldiers, became the one-time lover of the renowned Begum Sombru and eventually established his own kingdom based at Hansi. The narrative reveals the complexity of a man who exhibited a ruthless courage in pursuit of his enemy but was loyal and generous in his dealings with his own men and those who hired them. Each chapter embodies quotes from relevant texts and footnotes to satisfy the academic. For the average reader, this book is an excellent introduction to this early period in the history of India and to the type of life lead by European mercenary soldiers. There is also a list of characters and glossary for ease of reference, plus a bibliography. An enthralling and unforgettable read. Recommended. (Beverly Hallam, FIBIS trustee, 2010)
[[Category:Recommended reading]]
==Navy==
