Video summary
The rationale for creating a French African regiment is explained by David Olusoga.
Using contemporary film footage and photographs, one man's story illustrates the experience of African soldiers and the coercion that was used to make them fight.
This clip is from the series The World's War.
Teacher Notes
This film could be used to spark a discussion and get students researching the role and contribution of empire troops in World War One.
Students could be encouraged to work in groups and explore the different perspectives of the non-European troops, conducting their own research and presenting it back to the class.
These films are suitable for teaching History at KS4 in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and at 4th Level in Scotland.
Audio evidence from Empire Soldiers in World War One. video
We hear a rare audio recording of Mall Singh, an Indian soldier captured by the Germans.
Different cultural cooperation in World War One. video
David Olusoga explores the experiences of Indian soldiers in World War One.
Indian deserters caught up in a Wartime strategic mission. video
The incredible journey of Jemadar Mir Mast, the British-Indian soldier who risked everything to get home.
Multi-cultural Troops. video
David Olusoga explores diary evidence on the diversity of soldiers on the Western Front.
Overcoming racial stereotypes in World War One. video
Historian and film-maker, David Olusoga, explores how negative racial attitudes were challenged in France during World War One as new friendships were forged.
The Chinese Labour Corps in World War One. video
David Olusoga investigates the contribution of the least acknowledged group from the Empire - Chinese labourers.
The experience of African American soldiers in Europe in WW1. video
Historian David Olusoga examines the racial prejudice experienced by African Americans in the US Army.
The Indian Royal Flying Corps fighter Ace. video
David Olusoga explores the racial barrier-breaking service of an Indian fighter pilot in the Royal Flying Corps.
The Imperial scope of a European War. video
David Olusoga visits Africa to explore the global scope of the World War One.
