In the fall of 1942 and spring of 1943, the British-led Allied forces in Burma were defeated by a smaller but better-prepared and better-led Japanese army. At this crucial time, a little-known officer named Lieutenant General William Slim took command of the multinational force that had known only defeat at the hands of the Japanese. Slim had the daunting task of forging the British, Nepalese, Indian (Hindu, Sikh and Muslim troops), West and East African, Chinese and American forces into a fighting element that could meet and best the Japanese army. David Cotter shares this fascinating tale and answers the question: could Slim change defeat into victory?

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The Robert J. Dole Institute of Politics is dedicated to promoting political and civic participation as well as civil discourse in a bipartisan, philosophically balanced manner. It is located on KU’s West Campus and houses the Dole Archive and Special Collections. Through its robust public programming, congressional archive and museum, the Dole Institute strives to celebrate public service and the legacies of U.S. Senators Bob Dole and Elizabeth Dole.

More information on all programs, as well as ongoing additions to the schedule, can be found on the Dole Institute’s website, www.doleinstitute.org.

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The Dole Institute provides a forum for discussion, but does not endorse the political positions or personal opinions of its guests.