Charles Oman
Wellington's Army, 1809-1814
"Wellington's Army, 1809-1814" by Charles Oman is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The book delves into the intricacies of the British Peninsular Army during the Napoleonic Wars, specifically highlighting the period between 1809 and 1814. Oman offers insights into the organization, daily life, and psychological aspects of the army under the leadership of the Duke of Wellington, aiming to provide a thorough exploration of both the soldiers' experiences and their structural organization. At the start of the work, Oman outlines his intentions, explaining that while much has been documented about battle events, lesser-known aspects of the soldiers' lives and the army’s internal mechanisms deserve attention. He emphasizes the vast collection of personal accounts from veterans, ranging from high-ranking officials to ordinary soldiers, which provide a rich context to the army's operations. Additionally, Oman notes the significance of understanding the cultural and social dynamics within the army, and he hints at the evolving attitudes toward soldiers as the war progressed. This opening portion lays the groundwork for a deeper exploration of military life and its broader implications within the historical landscape of the Peninsular War.