The Armenian Legionnaires: Sacrifice and Betrayal in World War 1 – Susan Pattie

Part of AN INTRODUCTION TO ARMENIAN HISTORY, CULTURE & HERITAGE series (6 half day course)

Following the devastation resulting from the Armenian Genocide in 1915, survivors of the massacres were dispersed Across the Middle East, North and South America, and Europe. Not content with watching World War I silently from the sidelines, a large number of Armenian volunteers joined the specially formed Légion d’Orient. Trained in Cyprus, the Legion fought courageously in Palestine, alongside General Allenby, playing a crucial role in defeating the German and Ottoman forces in Palestine at the Battle of Arara in September 1918.

The Armenian Legionnaires signed up on the understanding that they would be fighting in Syria and Turkey, and, should the Allies be successful, they would be part of an occupying army in their old homelands, laying the foundation for an independent Armenia.

SPEAKER BACKGROUND: Susan Pattie is an Honorary Senior Research Associate at University College London and former Director of the Armenian Institute in London. She holds a PhD in Anthropology from the University of Michigan and is also the author of Faith In History: Armenians Rebuilding Community.

See the Facebook event here. 

BACKGROUND: The CAIA is organising another course to meet the demand from the community, thanks to a small grant from ‘Ealing Adult Education Department’. The course is also open and suitable to anyone with an interest in history, culture, and heritage.

The course offers:
– A better understanding of Armenian history, culture and heritage
– An opportunity for families to learn together about their past
– Improve prospects into further learning
– A chance to ask questions & interact with others in a friendly & welcoming environment

This course is designed by way of introduction to increase knowledge of Armenian history, culture, identity & dispersion and to enable adults/young people to understand better about where, why and how Armenians have arrived in UK and the challenges facing them.

DETAILS: To attend, please send us an email in advance (info@caia.org.uk) booking your place. Full registration on the day with your passport number. You can print out and bring the filled in registration form with you as well – download it here: http://bit.do/armenian

Light lunch/refreshments
1.30pm-2pm

This is a free course in English open for anyone. However, you must register and complete a feedback evaluation form at the end of each session. Places are limited.