Introduction

This introductory chapter covers the general arguments made in the book and examines some of the important questions discussed in the chapters. It discusses the broad methodology and approach taken in the various chapters and takes a comparative look at the existing literature on the Anglo-Kuki War. It also examines theoretical positions on the colonial counterinsurgency strategy of violence, and how the military operations against the Kuki rising were part of the Great War. Finally, it examines the vexed question of leadership among the Kukis during the war and discusses the crucial role played by clan networks and relationships. A summary of the findings in the various chapters in the volume is discussed at the end.