The Portuguese Army of the Napoleonic Wars

Brief Summary

"The Portuguese Army of the Napoleonic Wars" by Otto von Pivka offers a comprehensive look into the role of the Portuguese military during the Peninsular War. It begins with a chronology of Portugal's involvement, highlighting its transitional journey from inefficiency at the start of the conflict in 1806 to becoming a formidable ally under British guidance. The book details the critical campaigns where the Portuguese army made significant contributions, particularly under the command of Wellington, covering battles such as Bussaco, Fuentes de Onoro, and Albuera, culminating in the decisive Allied victory at Vittoria in 1813. The narrative is richly supplemented with descriptions of the uniforms, equipment, and organizational structure of the various units within the Portuguese military.

Main Themes and Topics

One of the main themes in "The Portuguese Army of the Napoleonic Wars" is the transformation and modernization of the Portuguese military forces during a crucial period of European warfare. The book meticulously details how the intervention and training by British forces under figures like Wellington significantly elevated the operational capability of the Portuguese troops. It covers extensive ground, including the strategic alliance between Britain and Portugal, the integration of new military tactics, and the evolution of military uniforms and equipment. This work sheds light on the broader implications of military reform in the context of coalition warfare against the formidable Napoleonic forces.

Writing Style and Tone

Otto von Pivka's writing style in this historical account is both informative and engaging. The tone is authoritative yet accessible, making it suitable for both military history enthusiasts and general readers with an interest in the Napoleonic Wars. The use of detailed descriptions alongside illustrations and color plates allows readers to visualize the historical narrative effectively. Von Pivka employs a clear and systematic approach to presenting information, which aids in understanding the complex military developments and historical context.

Criticism

While the book is praised for its detailed research and comprehensive coverage of the Portuguese army's role in the Napoleonic Wars, some readers might find the focus on military minutiae, such as uniforms and equipment, to be somewhat dense or overwhelming. Additionally, because the book concentrates heavily on military aspects, those seeking an exploration of the broader socio-political context of Portugal during this period might find the coverage lacking. The narrative focuses on the military chronology and accomplishments, sometimes at the expense of deeper exploration into the lives of individual soldiers or broader historical implications.