ABSTRACT

This chapter explores the experiences of Australian soldiers captured in Europe during World War I. In the cases of both Australian prisoners of war (POWs) and demobilizing soldiers, particular circumstances shaped experiences of education and entertainment. Australian soldiers captured in Europe were sent to camps in Germany, where conditions and experiences varied from camp to camp. The Australian Branch of the British Red Cross (ARC) in London took responsibility for Australian POW's and sent them food and clothing parcels. Although some Australians had been prisoners in Turkey from 1915, nothing much had been done for them. As the Red Cross commented, the care of these men had been left to their friends'. Australian soldiers captured in Europe were sent to camps in Germany, where conditions and experiences varied from camp to camp. The Australian Branch of the British Red Cross (ARC) in London took responsibility for Australian POW's and sent them food and clothing parcels.