Subject
Great Britain -- History, Military 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.
James Grant
The Cavaliers of Fortune; Or, British Heroes in Foreign Wars
"The Cavaliers of Fortune; Or, British Heroes in Foreign Wars" by James Grant is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. The work focuses on the biographies of noteworthy military figures, particularly those of Irish and Scottish descent, who sought fame and fortune by serving in foreign armies during various European wars. It examines the exploits and sacrifices of these soldiers, highlighting their contributions and the often turbulent circumstances they faced. The opening portion introduces the Count de Lally, a distinguished Irishman who served in the French army during the colonial wars in India. The narrative recounts his early life, military background, and the series of events leading to his rise as a commander. Lally is portrayed as a valiant yet complex character, admired for his military prowess but ultimately caught in political and strategic challenges that marked his career. The detailed accounts serve both to honor his legacy and to reveal the broader context of soldiers of fortune during the conflicts of his era.
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.
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.
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.
A. L. (Arthur Lincoln) Haydon
The Book of the V.C. A record of the deeds of heroism for which the Victoria Cross has been bestowed, from its institution in 1857 to the present time
"The Book of the V.C." by A. L. Haydon is a historical account written in the early 20th century, focusing on the valorous deeds recognized by the Victoria Cross, a military honor bestowed for exceptional bravery. The book provides a record of the acts of heroism that warranted the decoration from its inception in 1857 to when the author was writing, illustrating the democratic spirit of this prestigious award which can be won by any rank, including common soldiers and sailors. The opening of the book outlines the origins of the Victoria Cross, highlighting its establishment due to the remarkable acts of valor performed during the Crimean War. It discusses the first presentation ceremony held in Hyde Park, London, where Queen Victoria awarded the medals to 62 heroes—a moment celebrated for its significance in honoring bravery in the armed forces. The text sets the stage for detailed accounts of various recipients' exploits across different conflicts, emphasizing not only physical bravery but the moral courage of those who served, some of whom were tragically overlooked despite their extraordinary service.
W. H. (William Henry) Fitchett
Deeds that Won the Empire Historic Battle Scenes
"Deeds that Won the Empire" by W. H. Fitchett is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The work captures significant battles and events that shaped the British Empire, emphasizing the valor and heroism displayed during these monumental struggles. Readers can expect a collection of detailed narratives about various military engagements and the leaders who played pivotal roles in expanding British influence. The opening of the book sets a reflective tone, expressing the intent to honor patriotism through recounting tales of triumph and bravery rather than glorifying war itself. Fitchett introduces us to a narrative structure that details several key battles, starting with a vivid portrayal of the battle off Cape St. Vincent in the late 18th century. The description immerses readers in the tension and strategies at play, particularly highlighting Admiral Jervis and Nelson's tactical ingenuity in confronting a larger Spanish fleet. This opening portion thus promises an engaging blend of historical accuracy and dramatic storytelling, aimed at rekindling appreciation for the rich military heritage of the British Empire.
Edward William Bray
Memoirs and Services of the Eighty-third Regiment, County of Dublin, from 1793 to 1907 Including the Campaigns of the Regiment in the West Indies, Africa, the Peninsula, Ceylon, Canada, and India
"Memoirs and Services of the Eighty-third Regiment, County of Dublin, from 1793 to 1907" is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This book provides a comprehensive overview of the 83rd (County of Dublin) Regiment's history, detailing its formation, campaigns, and notable engagements throughout various significant battles and military actions across the globe, including the West Indies, Africa, and India. The opening of this memoir introduces the regiment's inception in 1793 under Major William Fitch. It outlines the regiment's early days in Dublin, where it conducted garrison duties and prepared for deployment. The text describes the regiment's voyage to the West Indies and subsequent involvement in combat during the Maroon insurrection. Furthermore, it establishes the regiment's lineage, recounting pivotal moments that shaped its identity and commitment to military service, laying the groundwork for the detailed accounts of its extensive military history that will follow in the subsequent sections.
J. W. (John William) Fortescue
Military History: Lectures Delivered at Trinity College, Cambridge
"Military History: Lectures Delivered at Trinity College, Cambridge" by J. W. Fortescue is a scholarly exploration of military history written in the early 20th century. The book is primarily a collection of lectures that define and examine the scope, significance, and nuances of military history, asserting that it is much more than a mere record of wars. The lectures argue that military history encompasses the broader conflicts and interactions between communities and the institutions that enforce order through force. The opening of the work sets the stage by grappling with the challenge of defining military history. Fortescue discusses various interpretations and ultimately proposes that military history should be understood as the strife of communities expressed through organized conflict among armed men. He illustrates this concept with examples from different types of warfare, such as commercial warfare and civil war, to show that conflicts do not always require conventional military engagements to have their historical significance. This setup not only invites a deeper understanding of military history but also hints at the multifaceted nature of human conflict itself.
Reginald Hodder
British Regiments at the Front, The Story of Their Battle Honours
"British Regiments at the Front: The Story of Their Battle Honours" by Reginald Hodder is a historical account written in the early 20th century. This work explores the valorous histories and battle honors of various British regiments, particularly during key conflicts across Europe and colonial wars. It serves as both a tribute to the bravery of these regiments and a detailed recollection of their significant contributions in various battles throughout history. The opening of this publication presents a detailed context of the regiments, starting with interesting anecdotes and historical backgrounds that describe their nicknames and how they were earned. It highlights the bravery and tenacity of regiments such as the 5th Dragoon Guards, the Carabiniers, and the Royal Scots, recounting notable battles and specific acts of heroism. Through rich narratives and a focus on military tradition, the text captures the essence of the British military legacy, while setting the stage for a deeper exploration into each regiment's unique identity and historical significance.
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