Belgian askaris, Lindi area, East Africa, WW1
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Belgian askaris, Lindi area, East Africa, WW1
Belgian askaris in the Lindi area, East Africa, during WW1.
1917
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 14394762
© The On Call in Africa Collection / Mary Evans Picture Library
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures a group of Belgian Askari soldiers, taken in the Lindi area of East Africa during World War I in 1917. The Askari, meaning "guard" or "soldier" in Swahili, were an integral part of the Belgian colonial army in Africa. Recruited primarily from the local population, they played a crucial role in the Belgian military campaigns in the region. The image shows a diverse group of African men, dressed in their military uniforms, standing in a semi-circle. Their determined expressions and alert postures convey a sense of readiness and discipline. The soldiers are armed with rifles and bayonets, reflecting the harsh realities of wartime and the ongoing conflict in the region. The Lindi area, located in present-day Tanzania, was a strategic location during the war. It was a major port and railhead, making it a valuable asset for both the Allied and Central Powers. The Belgian forces, under the command of King Albert I, fought against the German colonial forces to secure control of the region and protect their colonial interests. This photograph offers a glimpse into the complex history of colonialism and war in Africa during the early 20th century. It highlights the role of African soldiers in the European military campaigns and challenges traditional narratives of the war as solely a European conflict. The image also serves as a reminder of the human cost of war and the sacrifices made by soldiers on all sides.
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