Rest and clean up on way from the front line
Summary
In this barren and somewhat depressing landscape a large body of soldiers have come to a halt. They are resting on a ridge which is surrounded by stripped and barren trees. Some of them are standing and others are lying or sitting down. They have all, however, discarded their packs and they are piled up together. The atmosphere, despite the surroundings, seems quite relaxed and jolly. John Warwick Brooke is thought to be responsible for this photograph...This material would have been very useful as propaganda. The message of hard working, successful troops enjoying a well earned and safe break amongst comrades. This would have been reassuring and stimulated feelings of patriotism and pride...[Original reads: 'OFFICIAL PHOTOGRAPH TAKEN ON THE BRITISH WESTERN FRONT. A rest and clean up on way from the front line.']..digital.nls.uk/74548318 ( http://digital.nls.uk/74548318 )
World War I (WWI or WW1), also known as the First World War, or the Great War, was a global war centred in Europe that began on 28 July 1914 and lasted until 11 November 1918. World War I Images From National Library of Schotland. These photographs form part of the papers of Field Marshal (Earl) Haig (1861-1928), held by the National Library of Scotland. More information is available from the Library's Digital Archive. Like many World War I generals, Haig remains a controversial figure. The collection contains diaries, papers and photographs from every part of Haig’s career, the Great War diaries being of special importance to historians. Photographs in the "Official Photographs" series (which were destined for publication and have captions on the back describing the image) are in black-and-white. World War I saw the development of a system of 'official’ reporting by professionals especially recruited into the forces. Initially reluctant to allow cameras near the fighting, it took some time for the authorities to appreciate the propaganda and recording potential of photography. These photographs provide us with an invaluable record of how the Government and Military wanted the war perceived. Official photographers were encouraged to record morale-boosting scenes of victory and comradeship. Despite the restrictions placed on them, official war photographers succeeded in giving the most comprehensive visual account of the war. It is important to remember that these images were propaganda; few that could depict the war in a disheartening or disconcerting way passed the censors. As a result the photograph taken was often posed. They were intended to reassure those at home and boost morale. They were printed in newspapers, and were intended to confirm that 'Tommy' was winning the war.
- Cleaning the guns hi-res stock photography and images - Alamy
- Soldiers from the back. troops, army, military men Stock Photo - Alamy
- Soldiers from the back. troops, army, military men Stock Photo - Alamy
- Soldiers from the back. troops, army, military men Stock Photo - Alamy
- Weapons cleaning hi-res stock photography and images - Alamy
- Cleaning weapons hi-res stock photography and images - Alamy
- Troops come back hi-res stock photography and images - Alamy
- Soldiers cleaning weapons Stock Photos and Images - Alamy
- Troops with guns Stock Photos and Images - Alamy
- Returning from the field hi-res stock photography and images - Page 2