Subject
Great Britain. Army -- History Books
Best books
Charles Boswell Norman
Battle Honours of the British Army From Tangier, 1662, to the Commencement of the Reign of King Edward VII
"Battle Honours of the British Army" by Charles Boswell Norman is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The work explores the significant battles and campaigns that shaped the British Army from 1662 to the early 1900s, detailing the honours bestowed upon regiments for their service in various encounters. This includes a focus on the regiments involved and the casualties they faced, highlighting both well-known and lesser-known engagements. The opening of the book sets the stage by introducing the primary purpose of documenting the battle honours that are emblazoned on the colours and awards of British regiments. The author discusses the inconsistencies and complexities surrounding the awarding of these honours, emphasizing the heroism displayed throughout different campaigns such as the Siege of Gibraltar and the operations in the Mediterranean. The narrative includes a detailed account of the historical context and significance of battles, starting with events at Tangier and Gibraltar, as well as a commitment to honour the soldiers who fought and fell in these engagements.
John S. Farmer
The Regimental Records of the British Army A historical résumé chronologically arranged of titles, campaigns, honours, uniforms, facings, badges, nicknames, etc.
"The Regimental Records of the British Army" by John S. Farmer is a historical account likely written in the late 19th century. This volume compiles detailed information about various regiments of the British Army, including their titles, major campaigns, honors, uniforms, and nicknames. It serves as a chronological résumé of the military legacy and identity of these units. The opening of the text presents the structure of the book, outlining contents that range from various cavalry regiments to the Royal Artillery and Royal Engineers. It begins with a section dedicated to the Cavalry, listing the titles and significant battles of various regiments such as the First Life Guards and the Royal Horse Guards. Each regiment is described with its historical background, notable achievements, and characteristic features like uniforms and badges. The detailed arrangement sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of the military history and traditions of the British Army, aimed at both history enthusiasts and military scholars.
J. W. (John William) Fortescue
A History of the British Army, Vol. 1 First Part—to the Close of the Seven Years' War
"A History of the British Army, Vol. 1" by Sir J. W. Fortescue is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This volume explores the development of the British Army up until the conclusion of the Seven Years' War. The author's objective is to trace the origins and evolution of British military forces, detailing major campaigns, organizational structures, and evolved tactics that shaped the Army's identity. At the start of the work, the author contextualizes the history of the British Army, arguing that its true beginnings predate widely accepted dates, extending back to the roots of military organization in the English Civil War. He illustrates how the evolution of English military practices emerged from earlier feudal systems, emphasizing pivotal battles, such as Hastings and Falkirk, that shaped military tactics and unity among English forces. Fortescue also highlights the critical role of trained officers, the transition from local levies to a standing army, and the complexities involved in managing military finance and governance, setting the stage for a comprehensive history that examines both military and political dimensions of the Army's past.
Richard Cannon
Historical Record of the Fourth, or Royal Irish Regiment of Dragoon Guards. Containing an Account of the Formation of the Regiment in 1685; and of Its Subsequent Services to 1838
"Historical Record of the Fourth, or Royal Irish Regiment of Dragoon Guards" by Richard Cannon is a historical account written in the early 19th century. The work presents a thorough history of the Fourth Regiment from its formation during the tumultuous time of King James II to its activities in various military engagements up to the late 1830s. The narrative likely covers the encounters and achievements of the regiment, emphasizing the bravery and loyalty of its soldiers. The opening of the historical record details the origins of the Fourth Regiment in response to the tumultuous political climate of 1685, including the Duke of Monmouth's rebellion. Cannon outlines how the regiment was formed from several troops raised by loyal officers and included insights into the early operations, uniforms, and weaponry of the regiment. It sets the stage for the regiment's significant role in various battles and its evolution as a key component of the British Army, illustrating the pride and dedication of its members throughout their history.
Charles Cooper King
The Story of the British Army
"The Story of the British Army" by C. Cooper King is a historical account written in the late 19th century. This work delves into the evolution of the British Army, tracing its roots from early military formations up to modern times, alongside the political and social contexts influencing its development. It highlights significant events and battles, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of military history in Britain. The opening of the narrative sets the stage by discussing the primitive necessities of early warfare faced by archaic man, using vivid descriptions of tribal conflicts and the need for organization in military operations. It touches on the rise of distinct armies in Britain, starting with the encounters between woad-clad Britons and Roman forces, and later, the Saxon and Danish invasions. The author emphasizes the transformation from individualistic confrontations to the structured militias that evolve into the large-scale military entities encountered in later historical periods, setting up a context that promises a deeper exploration of the British Army's storied past through ensuing chapters.
J. W. (John William) Fortescue
A History of the British Army, Vol. 2 First Part—to the Close of the Seven Years' War
“A History of the British Army, Vol. 2” by Sir J. W. Fortescue is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The volume covers the evolution and structure of the British Army from 1713 to 1763, detailing critical events such as the Jacobite Rebellion and subsequent military engagements. This work provides insight into the political dynamics that influenced army administration, the challenges faced by soldiers, and the societal perceptions of military life during this period. The opening of the volume addresses the disbandment of the Army following the Peace of Utrecht, outlining the significant number of regiments that were dissolved and the subsequent political maneuvering that sought to reshape the military in favor of the Jacobite interest. It describes the precarious military situation during the early 18th century, particularly with the threat posed by Jacobite uprisings and the weaknesses of the army. Furthermore, it highlights the return of prominent military figures like Marlborough and the complexities of managing military discipline amid growing civil unrest and political factionalism. The intro sets the stage for a deeper exploration of military reforms and conflicts that shaped British military history.
Archibald K. Murray
History of the Scottish Regiments in the British Army
"History of the Scottish Regiments in the British Army" by Archibald K. Murray is a historical account likely written in the mid-19th century. This work delves into the origins, achievements, and notable events of various Scottish regiments within the British Army, presenting a narrative that emphasizes their bravery and significance throughout military history. The author, a major in the Ninety-Seventh Lanarkshire Volunteer Guards, expresses a deep sense of pride in showcasing the valor of these regiments and their contributions to both Scottish and British military legacy. At the start of the narrative, the author outlines his intentions and acknowledges the collaborative effort behind the compilation of this history. The preface sets a tone of honor and gratitude towards Scottish soldiers, emphasizing the rich military traditions and the significant achievements of these regiments. Beginning with an insightful introduction, it addresses Scotland's place in military history, particularly regarding the ongoing conflicts of the era, leading into a detailed exploration of specific regiments, their heroic tales, and the broader context of warfare in which they were involved. The initial chapters touch upon historical conflicts, struggles for freedom, and battles against tyranny, underscoring the unwavering spirit and loyalty of the Scottish soldiers throughout history.
Richard Cannon
Historical Record of the Seventy-first Regiment, Highland Light Infantry Containing an Account of the Formation of the Regiment in 1777, and of Its Subsequent Services to 1852
"Historical Record of the Seventy-first Regiment, Highland Light Infantry" by Richard Cannon is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The text chronicles the formation and service of the Seventy-first Regiment, detailing its contributions and engagements from its inception in 1777 through to 1852. It provides an in-depth look at the regiment's actions, notable figures, and historical context that shaped its existence within the British Army. The opening of the text introduces the royal warrant under which the Seventy-first Regiment was formed, emphasizing the broader historical context of the regiment amidst ongoing conflicts, including the American War of Independence and tensions with France. Cannon elaborates on the early efforts to raise the regiment, highlighting the involvement of Scottish Highland clans and detailing the critical personnel appointed as officers. The intricacies of the regiment's movements, deployments, and battles are introduced, setting the stage for a comprehensive recounting of its military history and valor throughout significant military engagements.
Richard Cannon
Historical Record of the Thirty-first, or, the Huntingdonshire Regiment of Foot; containing an account of the formation of the regiment in 1702, and of its subsequent services to 1850
"Historical Record of the Thirty-first, or, the Huntingdonshire Regiment of Foot" by Richard Cannon is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. This work provides a detailed narrative of the formation and military service of the Thirty-first Regiment, tracing its history from its inception in the early 18th century through various key battles and engagements up to the mid-19th century. The book serves to honor the valor and achievements of the regiment within the broader context of British military history. At the start of this record, the transcriber outlines the formatting conventions used in the text, such as the notation of italicized text, footnotes, and superscripts, indicating a meticulous approach to historical documentation. The introduction includes a royal directive from 1836 aimed at encouraging a sense of pride and emulation among British soldiers by recording regiment-specific histories and individual acts of bravery. The opening chapters detail the regiment's formation as a Marine Corps and its early involvement in military operations during the War of the Spanish Succession, highlighting key figures and events that shaped its legacy.
Richard Cannon
Historical Record of the First, or Royal Regiment of Foot Containing an Account of the Origin of the Regiment in the Reign of King James VI. of Scotland, and of Its Subsequent Services to 1846
"Historical Record of the First, or Royal Regiment of Foot" by Richard Cannon is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The book details the origins and military history of one of the oldest regiments in the British Army, tracing its development and achievements from its formation during the reign of King James VI of Scotland to 1846. The text likely discusses significant battles, regimental honors, and notable figures associated with the regiment, emphasizing its storied legacy within military history. The opening portion introduces the inception of the Royal Regiment, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive historical record of British regiments and their valorous deeds. It outlines the background and establishment of the regiment, as well as the commands and obligations set forth by the British Army. Historical context is provided by discussing the valor of Scottish soldiers and their participation in European conflicts, including their service under notable leaders like Gustavus Adolphus of Sweden. Through this narrative, the author aims to celebrate the bravery and contributions of British troops, highlighting their endurance and significance in military history.
Robert Melvin Blackwood
The battles of the British Army : $b being a popular account of all the principal engagements during the last hundred years
"The Battles of the British Army" by Robert Melvin Blackwood is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book offers a popular narrative of the principal military engagements fought by the British Army over the last hundred years. It aims to present a comprehensive overview of significant battles, with a focus on the bravery and tactics employed by British soldiers amidst the backdrop of military history. The opening of the book introduces the context surrounding the Battle of Alexandria in 1801, which marks the beginning of a series of military engagements discussed throughout the text. It details the challenges faced by the British Army before landing in Egypt, including the weather, logistical issues, and the morale of the troops after long confinements at sea. As the narrative unfolds, it describes the intense and dramatic moments of the landing against the French forces, underscoring the chaos of battle and the valor displayed by both the soldiers and their commanders in the face of adversity. This sets the tone for the subsequent chapters, which will delve into more battles, exploring the complexities of military operations and the sacrifices made by those involved.
Richard Cannon
Historical Record of the Fourth, or the King's Own, Regiment of Foot Containing an Account of the Formation of the Regiment in 1680, and of Its Subsequent Services to 1839
"Historical Record of the Fourth, or the King's Own, Regiment of Foot" by Richard Cannon is a historical account written in the early 19th century. This work chronicles the inception and subsequent military exploits of the Fourth Regiment, detailing its actions and engagements from its establishment in 1680 up to 1839. The book aims to preserve the legacies of bravery exhibited by the regiment over the years, highlighting its contributions to British military history and the valor of soldiers who served. The opening of this historical record introduces the context and background for the formation of the Fourth Regiment, initiated in response to military needs in Tangier following its cession to King Charles II. The text outlines the urgency felt by the British Crown due to threats from local forces and reflects on the aims of the regiment, including maintaining national honor and security in overseas territories. It describes the regiment’s initial deployment, the challenges faced in Tangier, and its evolution into a significant fighting unit within the British Army. Moreover, it underscores the commitment of its personnel to valor and discipline, setting the stage for the detailed accounts of battles and victories to come in subsequent sections of the historical record.
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