Following the Balkan Wars of 1912–1913, the Ottoman Empire undertook a massive military retraining program. Although many histories have depicted the Ottomans as a poor fighting force, this was more often due to poor leadership and logistics. The typical Ottoman soldier, the asker, was tough, well-trained, and courageous. While fighting over varied terrain from Gallipoli, to Mesopotamia and to the Caucasus, they proved themselves to be able front-line troops. This is the first English-language book to focus exclusively on the Ottoman infantryman in the First World War. Using a combination of first-hand accounts, period photographs and specially commissioned artwork, it explores the recruitment, training, and combat experiences of these often–neglected warriors.

Contents:

Introduction-Chronology

Recruitment

Enlistment

Training

Appearance • Equipment

On Campaign • Belief and Belonging

Experience of Battle

After the Battle

Collecting

Museums

Re-enactment

Bibliography

Glossary

Index