Sketches of the East Africa Campaign

Sketches of the East Africa Campaign, written by Robert Valentine Dolbey, is a historical account of the East African campaign during World War I. The book provides a detailed description of the campaign, including the experiences of the soldiers, the challenges they faced, and the tactics employed by the German and British forces. The author, a doctor who served in the campaign, offers a unique perspective on the war, highlighting the difficulties of fighting in the African terrain, the impact of diseases such as malaria and dysentery, and the role of the native population in the conflict. The book also touches on the character of the German forces, led by Colonel von Lettow-Vorbeck, and their treatment of prisoners and civilians. The campaign was marked by a series of battles and skirmishes, with the British forces ultimately gaining the upper hand. The author notes that the German forces were well-disciplined and well-led, but ultimately outnumbered and outgunned by the British. The book also highlights the importance of the naval blockade in disrupting German supply lines and winning the war. The author's account is based on his own experiences and observations, as well as reports from other soldiers and officers. Overall, the book provides a comprehensive and engaging account of a significant but often overlooked chapter in the history of World War I.