British Napoleonic Infantry Tactics 1792–1815
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About this book
The British Army that faced Napoleon in the Peninsula was small by continental standards, but it consistently out-fought larger French armies, never losing a major open-field action. Its cavalry and artillery were standard; but its infantry achieved unique results, as their tactics were brought to a peak of professional perfection by Wellington. Using contemporary instruction manuals, first-hand accounts and in-depth analysis of individual actions, this book examines exactly how Wellington was able to convert a rabble of volunteers and criminals into a well-oiled, highly disciplined and professional war-winning machine. With a detailed look at the effective use of terrain, line rather than column manoeuvres and fortification assaults, Philip Haythornthwaite reveals the crucial tactics of Wellington's army, illustrated with comprehensive maps, images and full-colour artwork.
Contents
INTRODUCTION: ‘THAT ARTICLE’·THE MANUALS: The lack of a unified system; David Dundas’ Principles of Military Movement – criticisms – amendments·THE BATTALION: Organization·MARCHING AND FORMATIONS: Movement in column – the line: three ranks or two? – the square; Command and control: word of mouth – drums and bugles·THE MUSKET: The technical and human limitations; Firing·LIGHT INFANTRY·APPLICATION IN THE FIELD: Theory versus experience; Line versus column; The bayonet charge·BRIGADE TACTICS·SPECIAL OPERATIONS: Storming; Amphibious operations·SELECT BIBLIOGRAPHY·PLATE COMMENTARIES·SOURCE NOTES·INDEX
Paperback; June 2008; 64 pages; ISBN: 9781846032226