British Army: No longer what it was?
Most people have heard the catchy British patriotic song “Rule, Brittania!” commemorating the anniversary of the accession of the Hanoverians to the British throne in 1740. By the end of the 18th century, the tune had become representative of the nation’s military prowess as ruler of the seas, which ultimately lead to the British Empire holding sway over one quarter of the world’s total land area by the beginning of the 20th century.
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But, our members ask, what is left of Britain’s great military today? Does Britannia still rule the waves? Is it still a powerful military force to be reckoned with, or has it lost its élan while campaigning with a great variety of foreign armies over the past 50 years?
Waterloo - Searching the lost cuirassier
During Field Marshal Michel Ney’s famous, dramatic cavalry charges up Mont Saint Jean in the afternoon of the Battle of Waterloo, a French cuirassier officer was saved from certain death by being brought to safety inside a British square. According to author John Keegan in his “The Face of Battle” it was a certain adjudant Hughes of the 39th regiment that committed himself to this heroic feat … or so the story goes. But did this truly happen, or is it just a myth? And if true, what were the motives for this act of compassion in the middle of a battle? What disturbs our members the most, however, is that they can’t seem to find the name of this French officer. They have turned their libraries upside down and surfed on the Net, but to no avail! Any info or advice will surely be welcome. Who was this fortunate Frenchman?
The Black Book – a Commentary
We’ve heard of the Red Book, published by the Chinese government during the rule of Mao Zedong. In the Cold War forum, its counterpart The Black Book of Communism is being heavily debated. First published in 1997, this controversial literature describes a history of repression by the communist states. The forum debates revolve around claims that the basic philosophy behind communism is misunderstood or largely misinterpreted by the West, that the numbers of deaths have been grossly exaggerated and that the book is terribly one-sided. Supporters of these theories are convinced that many deaths were not caused by communist ideals but by the struggles during the many conflicts of the Cold War. In short, we are seemingly headed towards our own little Cold War here on the ACG forums.
The Barracks
Feel the need to rest awhile and to concentrate yourself on much “lighter” subjects other than politics, battles and warfare? Then feel free to drop by in our Barracks where you’ll find our members relax after a hard day’s work. ALL imaginable topics – and a few unimaginable – are discussed here, from the meaning of life to the birthday wishes to one of our members; from what you had for dinner last night to your favorite music. Our loyal ACG veterans will be glad to welcome you there, but don’t be fooled by their hard talk, warlike appearance and moustaches; they are a fun and lively bunch. I must warn you however, don’t be surprised when you wake up in the morning to the sound of a trumpet and find yourself dressed in a brand new ACG uniform!
ACG Searchlight!
The Korean War took place between June 1950 and July 1953. Few people realize the importance of this conflict in world history. The attack of North Korea on South Korea was a great challenge, not only because it took place barely five years after the war against Germany and Japan, but because it could have led to the Soviet conquest of Japan and all of Southeast Asia, triggering a Third World War.
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