Wingate and the Chindits : Redressing the Balance

Major General Orde Wingate, DSO and two bars, who had created and personally led the Chindits (commandos, from the Burmese word for a griffin) was killed in an air accident in March 1944, at the height of the second Chindit campaign. He was highly praised, especially by General Slim. But by 1956, Slim was dismissive of him in Defeat into Victory, and the Official British History in 1961 was viciously critical. What happened to change minds so completely? David Rooney examines the life and achievement of a maverick soldier who inspired loyalty and devotion in some, hostility in others. He presents facts that thoughtful, diligent research has uncovered, to leave a broader impression of Wingate's colourful career. The result is an intriguing portrait of a military mind of daring originality, deserving of a better judgement in military history.