Spanish Army of the Napoleonic Wars (1): 1793-1808

by René Chartrand

The Spanish Army was transformed during the 18th century by an influx of progressive officers who modernised and expanded it. It was closely modelled on the French armies of Louis XIV and Louis XV in tactical doctrine, organisation, armament and uniforms. In battle, they were often brave to the point of carelessness, and were thus sometimes difficult to control. The army also had several Swiss and Walloon regiments, less given to all-out attacks, but renowned for their steadiness under fire. In this first of three volumes, R ne Chartrand examines the organisation and uniforms of the Spanish Army of the Napoleonic Wars (1799-1815).

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1855327635
• ISBN13: 9781855327634
• Release Date: November 1998
• Publisher: Osprey Publishing (UK)
• Length: 48 Pages
• Weight: 0.40 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.2" x 7.3" x 9.8"

Customer Reviews

Reference book

This is an excellent refernce book for anyone intereseted in the Napoleonic era. Stephen Estopinal autor of El Tigre de Nueva Orleans.

An Essential Source for Hispanophiles

This series is a must for anyone with an interest in the Spanish army. This is not merely an excellent introduction to the subject, but also a detailed examination of the constantly changing uniforms and organisation of the Spanish army. Chartrand's evident scholarship is well supported by Younghusband's illustrations.My only (small) criticism of the series is that there is some overlap in the text between the time periods described in the titles, so each volume should be read carefully before embarking on a modelling project. Having said that, at this price you'd be mad not to buy all three volumes for your collection.

The Spanish Ulcer

I first read a book by Rene Chartrand in 1984. Typically, it was on uniforms. I found it to be excellent-ssuperb color plates and authoritative narrative. Since them, if I find a book by Rene Chartrand, I usually purchase it, especially if it is on the Napoleonic period. I was not disappointed with this superb little work either. It is definitely a work of scholarship, and not only includes those Spanish units that fought Napoleon and the French, but it also covers the Spanish army of his brother Joseph, King of Spain. The plates and other illustrations are accurate, and this book can stand on its own, not merely as a supplement to further research. All of Chartrand's books done for the Osprey series are of this caliber. I purchased four others by Chartrand when I bought this one. This book is highly recommended for historians, wargamers, military modelers, and enthusiasts. It will have an honored place on my bookshelf and will be used without fail.