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James Matthews is a member of the Institute for Advanced Study, Princeton, USA, and received his doctorate from the University of Oxford in 2008. His research interests lie at the intersection of social and military history in twentieth-century Europe. He was born in Lisbon and grew up between Spain and Portugal. His next research project is a study of military volunteerism during the militia period of the Spanish Civil War of 1936-39.
Based on painstaking research, it makes an important contribution to knowledge in so many aspects of the military life on both sides. Even-handed throughout, it demonstrates sophisticated judgement and is written in lucid prose. Paul Preston, War in History meticulously researched and engagingly written with verve and wit... What stands out throughout this compelling book is its deep commitment to archival research, with Matthews basing his conclusions on nuanced and comparative analysis of a vast array of sources gleaned from multiple archives. It is an impressive and profound model of the historian's craft. We congratulate him. ASPHS Best First Book Prize Judges Panel the publication of Reluctant Warriors, James Matthewss examination of the experiences of these ordinary Spaniards drafted into the armies of both sides, is to be warmly welcomed. Richard Baxell, English Historical Review a book that is certain of a place among the indispensable works on the conflict. Based on painstaking research, it makes an important contribution to knowledge in so many aspects of the military life on both sides. Even-handed throughout, it demonstrates sophisticated judgement and is written in lucid prose. Paul Preston, War in History Employing an innovative and broad definition of military history, this excellent volume explores the experiences and effectiveness of the nearly two million Spaniards, over ninety percent conscripts, who were under arms during the civil war. Michael Seidman, Bulletin for Spanish and Portuguese Historical Studies
