Description
Book SynopsisJonathan Vance examines Canada's role in the formation of an important aspect of international law, traces the growth and activities of a number of national and local philanthropic agencies, and recounts the efforts of ex-prisoners to secure compensation for the long-term effects of captivity.
Trade ReviewA fascinating study focusing on an underexplored issue. Vance tells this tale in a comprehensive and entertaining fashion. -- J. Lemco * Choice *
[Vance] is to be applauded for his painstaking research effort and careful choice of photographs, cartoons and artwork. Our understanding of the politics surrounding POWs during the Boer War, two World Wars and the Korean War is enhanced by the materials surveyed in this handsomely-presented publication, as is our knowledge of the applicable international laws, relief activities, escape techniques, repatriation, war crimes, reintegration into society, and the POW battle for better pensions. -- Larry Woods * Prince George Citizen *
Vance’s text provides an exhaustive and meticulous account of the individual experiences of Canadian POWs. Objects of Concern is a meaningful and valuable work, one that should be read not only by those interested in military history, but by those with an interest in the courage and spirit of Canada’s ex-POWs of the twentieth century. -- R. Bruce McIntyre * The Canadian Historical Review *
Table of ContentsIntroduction
1 Nineteenth-Century Precursors
2 “Everybody's Business”
3 Repatriation and Liberation
4 The Interwar Years
5 The Organizational Framework, 1939-45
6 Relief and Release in the European Theatre
7 A Tougher Nut: Prisoners of the Japanese
8 “The Debris of Past Wars”
Conclusion
Appendix
Notes
Bibliography
Index
