Six Battles for India

Anglo-Sikh Wars, 1845-46 and 1848-49 (Conflicts of Empire Series)

By: George Bruce

Narrated by: Nigel Patterson

By the end of the nineteenth century, India was described as the jewel in the crown of the British Empire, but how did such a small island come to dominate one of the richest lands in the world?

Without doubt the toughest opponents to British control was led by the Sikhs.

Ranjit Singh, the brilliant "Lion of Punjab" who ruled the Sikh Empire, had revolutionized his army by employing French officers from Napoleon's Grand Army to train his artillery and infantry on the European model.

He had ruled well and created a cultural and artistic renaissance in his lands, yet his death led to infighting amongst his successors and within a few years tension with the neighboring British-protected territory broke out into open warfare.

George Bruce explores how the military might of the East India Company clashed with the powerful forces of the Sikh Empire in six hard-fought battles. Using a wide array of contemporary source materials he demonstrates how close the British forces were to being decimated and how they were only saved by treason within the Sikh ranks.

©1969 The Estate of George Bruce (P)2022 Tantor

Accessible military history, well worth it.

I am only beginning to learn about this period and found this a welcome addition to my military history library. There is just the right amount of background information given to enable the listener to understand the personalities and history behind the conflict. The historical events leading up to the wars are deftly handled without becoming bogged down in a laborious recounting of every minute detail, as so often happens with non-fiction books. This is introductory military history done properly. The battles are expertly covered with well chosen first person accounts and provide a good overview of the battles themselves. I found myself wanting to learn more after every chapter. Always a good sign when the author leaves you inspired.