A key group of British officers based at Jeddah saved the Arab Revolt from likely collapse both before and during TE Lawrence’s indispensable involvement.
In particular, the influence of Colonel Cyril Wilson over the revolt’s leader, Sherif Hussein of Mecca, was at least as important as that of Lawrence over Emir Feisal. Without the diplomatic and intelligence work of Wilson's team, the world would not have heard of 'Lawrence of Arabia'.
The forgotten men's lost story provides a fresh and timely perspective on Lawrence and the Arab Revolt during its centenary.
There will be a book sale and signing after the talk.