Tactical Grace
01-01-2006, 09:25
Newly published Cabinet papers show how ministers were anxious about rules for US troops stationed in the UK.
Black troops were treated equally in the British army, but white US soldiers ate and slept apart from comrades.
It was agreed: "If any segregation US must do it not us. Explain US attitude and ask our people to pay attention."
Minister for Labour Ernest Bevin said the idea was to alert officers to the potential problems: "Educate them yes: but don't try to educate them into US prejudices."
More at: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/4571716.stm
Priceless. The UK military being asked to show cultural sensitivity with regards to US troops treating their black comrades as second-class citizens.
Ironically, the colonial policy relied heavily on full integration - giving "coloured" colonial forces a full stake, role and respect, was considered essential to maintaining discipline and the political integrity of Empire. It was recognised that any difference in treatment would cause instability.
An often forgotten bit of history, and a lesson in cultural integration everywhere. :)
Black troops were treated equally in the British army, but white US soldiers ate and slept apart from comrades.
It was agreed: "If any segregation US must do it not us. Explain US attitude and ask our people to pay attention."
Minister for Labour Ernest Bevin said the idea was to alert officers to the potential problems: "Educate them yes: but don't try to educate them into US prejudices."
More at: http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/4571716.stm
Priceless. The UK military being asked to show cultural sensitivity with regards to US troops treating their black comrades as second-class citizens.
Ironically, the colonial policy relied heavily on full integration - giving "coloured" colonial forces a full stake, role and respect, was considered essential to maintaining discipline and the political integrity of Empire. It was recognised that any difference in treatment would cause instability.
An often forgotten bit of history, and a lesson in cultural integration everywhere. :)