The Sepoy

Sepoys were Indian soldiers that worked with foreign military powers to defend European colonies. They provided much-needed manpower during 18th-century battles, and many of them gave their lives to protect emerging UK interests. The Sepoy by Edmund Candler provides comprehensive coverage of Indian sepoys throughout the region, from their military roles to their unique skills and rich cultures.

The term “sepoy” is derived from the Persian word sipahi, which is a generic term for soldier. The sepoys in this book come from multiple regional traditions, including the Gorkhas, the Sikh, the Punjabi Mussalman, the Mahrattas, and the Dogras. Along with presenting individual characters and positions, The Sepoy illustrates the fascinating relationship that existed between the British Empire and the Indian Army.

First published in 1919, this title presents an account of multiple regiments within the Indian Army. It's a novel portrayal of unique military relationships and a collective analysis of socio-political struggles and settings. The largest sepoy force served the British East India Company, which changed the shape of the world through trade and politics. Through the lens of individual soldiers and their positions, The Sepoy looks at power struggles across the region and how they led to the formation of the Indian Army.