The gripping true story of the French Foreign Legion in the Sahara.

Ever since the 1920s the popular legend of the French Foreign Legion has been formed by P.C. Wren's novel BEAU GESTE - a world of remote forts, warrior tribes, and desperate men of all nationalities enlisting under pseudonyms to fight and die under the desert sun.

As with all cliches, the reality is far richer and more surprising than this. In this book Martin Windrow describes desert battles and famous last stands in gripping detail - but he also shows exactly what the Foreign Legion were doing in North Africa in the first place. He explains how French colonial methods there actually had their roots in the jungles of Vietnam, and how the political pressures that kept the empire expanding can be traced to battles on the streets of Paris itself. His description of the Berber tribesmen of Morocco also reveals some disturbing modern parallels: the formidable guerrillas of the 1920s were inspired by an Islamic fundamentalist who was adept at using the world's media to further his cause.

Martin Windrow's previous book THE LAST VALLEY received fabulous reviews across the English-speaking world. This unique book, which is the first to examine the 'golden age' of the Foreign Legion has followed suit.

The gripping true story of the French Foreign Legion in the Sahara.

About the Author
Born in 1944 and educated at Wellington College, Martin Windrow is an Associate of the Royal Historical Society and a member of the Foreign Legion Association of Great Britain. He has worked in publishing since the mid-1960s as a commissioning editor and author.

Reviews
Exemplary...we get both the grim reality and the heart-pounding drama...a very exciting read. -- Tim Newark * FINANCIAL TIMES *
A detailed and fascinating trawl through the real history of this most romanticised of fighting forces. * CATHOLIC HERALD *
Proves that the reality which inspired the myths is every bit as captivating. * SUNDAY BUSINESS POST *
Brings a lost world alive ... a vivid and welcome piece of history writing * HISTORY TODAY *



Book Information
ISBN 9780753828564
Author Martin Windrow
Format Paperback
Page Count 752
Imprint Weidenfeld & Nicolson
Publisher Orion Publishing Co
Weight(grams) 854g
Dimensions(mm) 236mm * 158mm * 52mm