Paul Knight will be discussing his book
Liverpool Territorials in the Great War which looks at the often overlooked history and experiences of the men who joined "The forgotten army" - the Territorial Force.Between the pre-war Regular Army, which attempted to stem the German advance in 1914, and the New Armies who took to the field with such disastrous consequences on the Somme in 1916, stood the Territorial Army. Liverpool's Territorials could be found on the Western Front before the famous Christmas truce of 1914, fighting in Gallipoli, and supporting the Canadians. Throughout 1916 and 1917, they succeeded and failed in some of the most brutal battles of the war. During the German 1918 Spring Offensive, Liverpool Territorials in the 55th (West Lancashire) Division halted the German advance, effectively ending Germany's final bid to win the war.
The Territorials were never intended, trained or equipped for overseas service; their role was to defend the UK mainland against invasion. Yet men across Liverpool's diverse communities volunteered for the Territorials in their thousands, forming the core of two divisions during the war.
Pamela Russell will be discussing her book Great War Britain - Liverpool which offers an intimate portrayal of the town and its people living in the shadow of the Great War for five years. Written in association with Liverpool Central Library Record Office, with content and illustrations drawn from their archives, this highly accessible volume explores the county's regiments, the background and fate of the area's men on the frontline, the changing face of industry, the vital role of women, conscientious objectors, hospitals for the wounded and rehabilitation, peace celebrations, the fallen heroes and war memorials.