Unlikely Diplomats: The Canadian Brigade in Germany, 1951-64 - Isabel Campbell

The information presented was written by Chris Buckham; however, it was published in Soldier Magazine. Therefore, the material is reproduced here by the author with the permission of the magazine. If you would like to republish this information or refer to excerpts please contact the Assistant Editor Soldier Magazine (rclark@soldiermagazine.co.uk). Website for the Magazine is: http://www.army.mod.uk/soldier-magazine/soldier-magazine.aspx

Title: Unlikely Diplomats: The Canadian Brigade in Germany, 1951-64

Author: Isabel Campbell
Publisher: UBCPress
ISBN: 978-0-7748-2563-4
Pages: 253
Photos/Maps: 0/0
Rating: 4/5
 
Canada's role within the NATO system and its subsequent influence on the world stage, despite participation and success in two world wars far in excess of its relative size, has always been perceived as secondary to the traditional, larger players. Campbell's book is an outstanding study into how the Canadian Government took advantage of the opportunity, presented by the deployment of its land force's back to the European theatre, to proactively establish and exercise a uniquely Canadian foreign policy. Drawing upon copious primary sources, Campbell has shed light upon a fascinating aspect of the interface and challenges of not only civil/military relations within Canada, but also how the role of this Brigade fundamentally changed the paradigm of the Canadian Defence community. Superbly researched and written, this book stands as a testament to the impact that small forces, skillfully lead, can have on an international stage.