Contents: Foreword by Lord Bhikhu Parekh Appreciations Historiography and Rationale of the First World War Declaration of War: Empire and Problem of Nationality Laws in a Colonial Situation Theatres of War: Indian Soldiers’ Participation Indian Recruitment and Rewards Prisoners of War: Evolution of the Concept of POWs War Ferment in India The Great War in Indian Memory The Deep Scars of the War: A Fissured Legacy Annexures I–IV Bibliography Index Indians in the First World War: The Missing Links is the first authoritative and complete academic account of the Indian participation in the First World War to be written by an Indian historian. The Great War involved significant Indian military contributions and casualties that are largely unheard of. The war also brought about major changes in the Indian social and political situation, caste structure and viewpoint regarding Indian identity, and fuelled the demand for India’s independence. This book carefully articulates and examines these crucial historic changes. The book covers Indian perspectives on all major aspects—historical, social, political and religious, among others—that were instrumental in ensuring India’s participation in the war. Based on the author’s own research and deep familiarity with Indian history and contemporary political reality, the book throws new light on some major events during the war. It is an indispensable book that deserves to be read by anyone who is interested in gaining a more thorough understanding of India’s contribution to and standing in world history and politics.