Professor David Peimer
The 2 Million Indian Soldiers in World War II: 30 Victoria Crosses - Heroism? Jobs? Profit?
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Summary
The untold story of the 2 million Indian soldiers who served in World War II: they fought in Africa, Asia, and Europe. It’s not a simple story of heroism or patriotism but also of the need for bread. Nor is it simply about imperial exploitation—many elite Indians made quick profits in the war. And what role did class or caste play in these various dynamics?
Professor David Peimer
David Peimer is a Professor of Literature, Film and Theatre in the UK. He has worked for the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, New York University (Global Division) and was a Fulbright Scholar at Columbia University. Born in South Africa, David has won numerous awards for playwriting and directing. He has most recently directed Dame Janet Suzman in his own play, Joanna’s Story, at London Jewish Book Week. He has published numerous books, including Armed Response: Plays from South Africa and the digital book Theatre in the Camps. He is on the board of the Pinter Centre (London), and has been involved with the Mandela Foundation, Vaclav Havel Foundation and directed a range of plays at Mr Havel’s Prague theatre.