Role of Sir Roos-Keppel Conflict, Confrontation and Compromise During World War First: A Historical Analysis

Abstract

This paper examines the pivotal role of Sir George Roos-Keppel during the First World War, focusing on his administration in the North-West Frontier Province (NWFP) and his efforts to manage conflict, confrontation, and compromise amid global and regional tensions. As Chief Commissioner and later Lieutenant Governor, Roos-Keppel operated at a critical juncture of imperial strategy and tribal autonomy. Faced with the dual challenges of maintaining British control over the volatile frontier and preventing Afghan-German-Turkish influence among the Pashtun tribes, Roos-Keppel adopted a nuanced policy that combined military preparedness with diplomatic engagement. When First World War started in Europe, Roos-Keppel was on his official leave in England and the post of Chief Commissioner was in the hand of Mr. J.S. Donald, who retained the post up to 28 January, 1915 when Roos-Keppel again resumed his duty. Another threat to the Indian British Government was from Afghanistan, because the Italo-Turkish and the Balkan wars already developed a belief in Afghanistan and India that the Western World trying to vanish Islam from the surface of earthThe study explores how Roos-Keppel navigated tribal unrest, resisted pan-Islamic agitation, and utilized traditional tribal institutions such as jirgas to mediate disputes. His fluency in Pashto and deep understanding of tribal dynamics allowed him to negotiate compromises that averted wider rebellion and ensured a relatively stable frontier during the war. By blending colonial administrative authority with localized customs, Roos-Keppel exemplified a model of conflict resolution rooted in cultural intelligence and pragmatic governance. This historical analysis argues that his leadership during World War I not only protected British strategic interests but also left a lasting imprint on frontier policy in South Asia.