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WW1 mascots: Nancy the springbok
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WW1 mascots: Nancy the springbok
Nancy, the springbok mascot of the South African Scottish.
1915
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Media ID 14387717
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> World War I and II
> Soldiers
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative photograph captures the spirit of camaraderie and connection between soldiers and their animal companions during the harrowing days of the First World War. In the foreground, Nancy, the beloved springbok mascot of the South African Scottish Regiment, gazes intently at the camera with a curious expression. The regiment, which was formed in South Africa during the Second Boer War and served primarily in the British Army during WWI, adopted Nancy as their mascot in 1915. The image shows Nancy standing next to a group of soldiers, who appear to be in high spirits despite the challenging conditions of the battlefield. One soldier holds a rifle, while another rests his hand on Nancy's back, demonstrating the bond that had developed between man and beast. The soldiers' uniforms and equipment are covered in dirt and mud, a testament to the harsh realities of trench warfare. Nancy, a native antelope of Southern Africa, was likely brought to the regiment by a soldier or officer who had served in South Africa before the war. Mascots like Nancy were believed to bring good luck and boost morale, providing a sense of comfort and familiarity amidst the chaos and uncertainty of the battlefield. This photograph is a poignant reminder of the human-animal connection that existed during times of war and the role that animals played in providing solace and companionship to soldiers. Nancy and her fellow mascots served as a symbol of hope and courage, reminding us of the enduring bond between man and beast.
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