'With the Judæans in the Palestine Campaign' Summary

The book details the formation and experiences of the Jewish Legion, a battalion of Jewish soldiers fighting for the British Army during World War I in Palestine. Patterson, a British officer, recounts the challenges of organizing the unit, training recruits from diverse backgrounds, and the challenges of fighting in a harsh desert environment. The narrative highlights the strategic importance of Palestine in the war, the political context of the growing Zionist movement, and the contributions of Jewish soldiers to the Allied cause. The book chronicles the unit's participation in key battles, including the capture of Beersheba, and explores the significance of the Jewish Legion's service for both the British war effort and the Zionist aspiration for a homeland. Patterson's personal perspective offers insights into the motivations of the soldiers, the complexities of interfaith relations, and the emerging political landscape of Palestine. It is a valuable historical account of a pivotal moment in both Jewish history and the history of the Middle East.