Answer:
The experience of war was different for the subjects of European colonies in Africa and India compared to European soldiers and civilians. Here are some key differences:
1. Recruitment: European colonial powers often relied on conscription or forced labor to recruit soldiers from their African and Indian colonies, while European soldiers were often volunteers. This meant that many African and Indian soldiers were coerced or forced to fight in wars that were not their own.
2. Treatment: African and Indian soldiers were often treated poorly by their European commanders and were given lower pay and less recognition than their European counterparts. They were also more likely to be used for dangerous tasks and to be exposed to disease and other health hazards.
3. Colonial policies: The war efforts of European powers often reinforced colonial policies that oppressed and exploited African and Indian subjects. For example, the British army in India relied heavily on Indian soldiers, but at the same time, the British government maintained policies that suppressed Indian nationalism and undermined Indian independence.
4. Impact on civilians: Wars in Africa and India often had a severe impact on civilian populations, who were subject to violence, displacement, and economic disruption. For example, the British army in Africa used brutal tactics to suppress rebellions, resulting in the displacement of thousands of civilians.
Overall, the experience of war for the subjects of European colonies in Africa and India was marked by exploitation, coercion, and marginalization. These populations were often forced to fight in wars that were not their own, and the war efforts of European powers often reinforced colonial policies that oppressed and exploited African and Indian subjects.