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Topical Budget 339-2: General Allenby's Entry into Jerusalem (1918)
 

British Film Institute

Main image of Topical Budget 339-2: General Allenby's Entry into Jerusalem (1918)
 
SponsorMinistry of Information
SponsorWar Office Cinematograph Committee
Camera OperatorJEAPES, Harold
Supervising EditorHOLT-WHITE, William
Production CompanyTopical Film Company

General Sir Edmund Allenby, Commander-in-Chief of the Egyptian Expeditionary Force, ceremonially enters the Holy City of Jerusalem.

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The most successful of all of the films issued by the propaganda newsreel, this account of General Edmund Allenby's entry into Jerusalem on 9 December 1917, ending 400 years of occupation by the Ottoman Empire, was issued in short and long versions.

The symbolism of Allenby's 'humble' march on foot (contrasting with an earlier, imperious entry by motor car by the Kaiser), and his speech promising religious freedom to all (translated into different languages worldwide), made a considerable impact.

Fascinatingly, T.E. Lawrence ('Lawrence of Arabia') took part in the march, and can be seen (in uniform) at two points in the film.

Luke McKernan

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Complete Film (04:26)
GALLERY / SCRIPTS / AUDIO
SEE ALSO
Topical Budget: War and Propaganda