Soon after the outbreak of World War I Turkey, encouraged by Germany, closed the Dardanelles (a strait in the north-west of Turkey) to the Allies, thus virtually cutting Russia off from Britain and France. This book tells the fascinating, sometimes horrifying, sometimes incredible story of attempts to reopen the strait. It documents the utter failure of Britain, supported by France, to achieve this goal. It also documents the determination and courage of the Turkish soldiers and their near triumph over the British-led troops. It tells the story of how the amazing ANZACs held on to their narrow strip of beach and cliff until given the order to evacuate. It is a story of immense gallantry and almost criminal errors of judgement, of heroism in the field and failure in high places. Despite its failure, it is regarded as one of the great military campaigns. If nothing else it is an outstanding example of the futility of war. (Source: from Book Flyleaf)
