The Unseen Anzac: how an enigmatic explorer created Australia's World War I

Discover the extraordinary tale of George Hubert Wilkins in 'The Unseen Anzac: How an Enigmatic Explorer Created Australia's World War I'. This captivating biography unveils the previously hidden narrative of Australia's most remarkable war photographer during World War I. In an era when cameras were forbidden on the Western Front, Wilkins defied the odds, capturing stunning images of the reality of battle. Assigned as a dedicated photographer by correspondent Charles Bean, he braved the front lines, armed only with his trusty glass-plate camera, to document the heroism and tragedy of the ANZAC soldiers. His fierce dedication earned him two Military Crosses and created a historical record of unparalleled significance. This book not only explores his awe-inspiring photographs but also delves into his mysterious life after the war, revealing a man whose accomplishments were overshadowed by secrecy and misinformation. As you journey through Wilkins's life, you'll uncover lost diaries and letters that breathe life into this enigmatic figure. Perfect for history buffs and photography enthusiasts alike, 'The Unseen Anzac' is a must-read that highlights the importance of remembering true heroes—ones whose stories are often forgotten. Experience the rich tapestry of Australian history as you delve into this engaging read, illuminating the legacy of a war photographer who captured the essence of a pivotal time in Australia's history.

Condition: BRAND NEW
ISBN: 9781925321494
Format: Trade paperback (UK)
Year: 2017
Publisher: Scribe Publications
Pages: 304


Description:
The previously untold story of an extraordinary man and a great war photographer. Cameras were banned at the Western Front when the Anzacs arrived in 1916, prompting correspondent Charles Bean to argue continually for Australia to have a dedicated photographer. He was eventually assigned an enigmatic polar explorer?-?George Hubert Wilkins. Within weeks of arriving at the front, Wilkins' exploits were legendary. He did what no photographer had previously dared to do. He went 'over the top' with the troops and ran forward to photograph the actual fighting. He led soldiers into battle, captured German prisoners, was wounded repeatedly, and was twice awarded the Military Cross?-?all while he refused to carry a gun and armed himself only with a bulky glass-plate camera. Wilkins ultimately produced the most detailed and accurate collection of World War I photographs in the world, which is now held at the Australian War Memorial. After the war, Wilkins returned to exploring and, during the next 40 years, his life became shrouded in secrecy. His work at the Western Front was forgotten, and others claimed credit for his photographs. Throughout his life, Wilkins wrote detailed diaries and letters, but when he died in 1958 these documents were locked away. Jeff Maynard follows a trail of myth and misinformation to locate Wilkins' lost records and to reveal the remarkable, true story of Australia's greatest war photographer.
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