Good afternoon all.
I have now finally read this book which I must say enjoyed very much. I have read Marek Sobski’s book East Africa but would say that Riccio’s and Afiero’s edges it on content.
The book gives an account of the Italian occupation of East Africa from the very beginning in 1869 to capitulation in 1941. This is very interesting and does not take up too much of the book.
There follows a battle by battle account of the conflict which is detailed and well cited. At the end of each chapter are nice period photographs from each battle.
The authors go into detail on certain Italian soldiers who acquitted themselves well and were decorated. Orders of battle appear in the appendix and this is at the beginning of hostilities. Chapters give the current situation as to forces available to the Italians which were constantly changing.
The problem I had with this book, as usual, was the lack and style of maps. I am familiar with the geography of the North African campaign but less so with East Africa. There are some maps which are contained in the photos but for me we’re not adequate. This book needs annotated maps at the beginning of each chapter to help the reader navigate through the campaign.
At the end of the chapters which included drawins of the soldiers kit and equipment. Also words to colonial songs were included which I thought was very different.
The biggest surprise for me coming out of the book was a couple of lines where the authors discus casualties. The numbers of Italian national casualties were listed but in relation to Ascari’s etc, reliable numbers couldn’t be given. In relation to UK and allies the authors were very direct, figures could not be given as they had been hidden by ‘British propaganda.’ When you read accounts of the East African campaign, the numbers quoted seem low when accounts of each battle are read. It is shame more research was not made into this as it could have been a chapter on its own.
it is book that I do recommend to anyone wanting learn about the often forgotten East African campaign.
Regards,
Bob