Russian Army of the Seven Years War (2)

Brief Summary

Russian Army of the Seven Years War (2) by Angus Konstam is an insightful exploration of the Russian military during the Seven Years War, specifically focusing on the cavalry and artillery. This sequel delves into the composition, nature, and effectiveness of both regular and irregular cavalry troops while also assessing the state of the artillery, which played a crucial role in the Russian military doctrine of the 18th century. The book discusses the challenges faced by the Russian army due to pre-war reforms and highlights their ability to adapt and recover amidst the conflict with Prussia.

Main Themes and Topics

Konstam’s work emphasizes the composition and performance of the Russian cavalry and the significance of the artillery in shaping military strategies. The book discusses the dichotomy between regular and irregular cavalry forces, examining their organizational structures and operational tactics. Additionally, it provides an analysis of the artillery’s dominance in Russian military planning and its pivotal role during the war efforts. The narrative also explores the broader theme of resilience, depicting how the Russian army overcame initial setbacks to play a significant role in the war.

Writing Style and Tone

Angus Konstam maintains a detailed and scholarly tone throughout the book, catering primarily to military historians and enthusiasts. His writing is precise and heavily focused on facts and figures, providing an in-depth analysis of military composition and operations. The narrative is supported by illustrations and diagrams that enhance the reader’s understanding of the complex military structures being discussed. Konstam succeeds in making a potentially dense subject accessible to readers with an interest in 18th-century military history.

Criticism

While Russian Army of the Seven Years War (2) is praised for its thoroughness and attention to detail, some readers may find the dense concentration of information overwhelming. The book's focus on specific aspects of the Russian military may not appeal to casual readers or those seeking a more general overview of the Seven Years War. Additionally, the book's specificity in terms of military terminologies and historical context might require readers to have some prior knowledge of the subject to fully appreciate the depth of Konstam's research.