Tug-of-war, 1935 (c)

Photograph, India, 1935 (c).

The British and Indian Armies favoured the tug-of war as an ideal way of building up physical strength while simultaneously fostering co-operation and teamwork. Such sports prepared men for combat by increasing fitness, channelling aggression, and focusing the mind. Sport served to strengthen the ties between men, instilling discipline and readiness to serve a common cause.

From an album of photographs, letters and newspaper cuttings associated with the 18th King George's Own Lancers, 19th Lancers (Fane's Horse) and 19th King George's Own Lancers, 1858-1961; inscribed on cover, 'Presented by the 19th KGV's Own Lancers Ex-officers Reunion Association 1958', with a foreword by Major General Roland Dening, 1960.