A BRILLIANT LITTLE VICTORY: The 48th (South Midland) Division on the Western and Italian Fronts During the First World War

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Analyzes the WWI history of the 48th South Midland Division, including its successful June 1918 defense of a critical position on the Asiago Plateau in Italy, high above the Lombardy Plain. It helped stop the Austrian attackers from breaking through into the rear of the main Italian position on the Piave Rivers. Despite fighting an effective defensive action, the divisional commander, Major General Sir Robert Fanshawe, was sacked and sent home a few days later to the dismay of his officers and men. Seeking to understand what lay behind the shocking removal, this provides a detailed analysis of the battle and looks at the factors that may have contributed to the sacking. Taking account of the standards of the time, offers a view about whether or not it was justified. Contains 10 black and white illustrations, 5-10 black and white photos, 2-3 color photos, 1-2 tables, and 10 maps.