Richard Cannon
Historical Record of the First, or the Royal Regiment of Dragoons
Containing an Account of Its Formation in the Reign of King Charles the Second, and of Its Subsequent Services to 1839
"Historical Record of the First, or the Royal Regiment of Dragoons" by Richard Cannon is a historical account written in the early 19th century. This work chronicles the formation and subsequent services of the Royal Regiment of Dragoons from its inception during the reign of King Charles II up to the year 1839. The book aims to document the valiant actions and achievements of the regiment, highlighting their role in various military operations throughout British history. The opening of the book sets the stage by discussing the context that led to the formation of the Royal Regiment of Dragoons, particularly after the Restoration of the monarchy. It details the initial troop of horse raised for service in Tangier and describes the military landscape of the time, focusing on the regiment's early skirmishes with Moorish forces. This introduction establishes the significant historical and military themes that will be explored in further detail, along with insights into the character and conduct of the British troops during tumultuous periods in British history.