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Our Growing Army by H. M. Bateman
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Our Growing Army by H. M. Bateman
Our Growing Army - No, not the LIGHT infantry. A humorous cartoon showing a group of portly soldiers by H. M. Bateman. Date: 1915
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Media ID 14155744
© Estate of H M Bateman/ILN/Mary Evans Picture Library
Bateman Battalion Growing Infantry Obese Overweight Plump Portly Officers
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Our Growing Army
EDITORS COMMENTS
is a humorous and satirical cartoon by renowned British illustrator, H.M. Bateman, created in 1915 during the height of World War I. The image depicts a group of portly soldiers, all wearing uniforms of the British Army, gathered together in a line. Their expansive girths are a stark contrast to the slim and agile figures typically associated with the military. The caption reads, "No, not the LIGHT infantry." This cartoon serves as a witty commentary on the reality of the British military during the war. As the demand for soldiers grew, recruitment efforts became more desperate, leading to the enlistment of men who may not have met the traditional physical requirements. The image pokes fun at the idea of a "growing army," both in terms of the increasing number of soldiers and the expanding waistlines of the recruits. Bateman's use of humor in this cartoon is significant, as it provided a much-needed respite from the harsh realities of the war. The image offers a lighthearted take on the military experience and highlights the human element of the conflict. The soldiers in the cartoon are not just faceless soldiers, but real men with flaws and imperfections, making them more relatable and human. The cartoon also serves as an intriguing historical artifact, offering a glimpse into the daily life and experiences of soldiers during World War I. The image is a reminder of the diversity of the military, both in terms of body types and backgrounds, and the unique challenges faced by the British Army during the war. Overall, "Our Growing Army" is a fascinating and humorous snapshot of a pivotal moment in history.
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