They fought in every theatre of World War II, from North Africa to Europe and as far east as Hong Kong. The colonial forces that dotted the battle maps of World War II were crucial for the Allies to fill out their ranks and keep up their momentum. The Atlantic Charter spurred hopes of independence among the British colonies. (British forces were reluctant to serve in India, preferring the glamour of the European front lines.) As Britain-backed Indian troops killed their own compatriots, those under Bose’s command, they also killed thousands of Japanese, considered some of the best fighters in World War II.

Source: The North Africa Journal September 01, 2020 20:48 UTC