Killing the Emperor (e-book) (used book) | G A Henty | bookbook.eu

Description

In this book you will read a true story about a British rescue expedition that took place in 1867 Abyssinia (present day Ethiopia). This is a very interesting story told from a Special Correspondent for the Standard Newspaper in 1868. He accompanied the army from Annesley Bay to Magdala were they faced the ruthless tribal chief Theodore II who claimed to be the Emperor. Theodore requested both military and logistic help from Queen Victoria against the tribal enemies to secure his claim. Britain had enough trouble during this time and did not want to be involved in the quack mires in Africa and did not respond to the letter from Theodore. Some advisors thought it was best not to inform the Queen of this matter because THEY DECIDED it was not in the greatest interest for Britain. Fuming, because he did not get his way, Theodore took hostages and threatened to kill everyone, including the negotiator! Now he had finally captured Britain's attention! They woke up and realized his threats were real, even the counselor who kept the dispatch complained about Theodore's behavior. Expedition corps were sent from Bombay to East Africa to free the shackled hostages. Most of this story tells about the hardships the soldiers experienced in the unforgiving Abyssinian terrain. The 400 mile ordeal was a logistical nightmare during which the British merged triumphant over the rough terrain. This major enterprise had more than 20,000 people and 40,000 animals in a period of six months and cost the taxpayer £9 million! Ending lucky for Britain, it did not end so well for the native prisoners; more than 350 lost their lives. The one-sided skirmish lasted only a few hours and the campaign was over. After the lost battle Theodore ended his life. With accurate portrayal of the country through which this expedition took place, this narration is a brilliant, in depth account of the resolve and stamina of the British Army and displays its shortcomings and weaknesses. This story was published so this essential part of our history would not be forgotten. Let this book take you on an adventure back in time to relive this incredible journey in history.