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Books > History > European history > 1750 to 1900
This study details the preparation, planning and execution of the
invasion of Portugal in 1810 by the French Armee de Portugal under
Marshal Massena, and the defensive measures taken by the British
and their Portuguese and Spanish allies. It also covers the
practice of all armies involved during this campaign, working from
original sources. These sources provide a different interpretation
of some key aspects of the campaign to those which are generally
accepted. The work focusses on the strategic, operational, and
tactical planning undertaken by both sides in preparation for the
invasion, and the actual progress of the campaign. A narrative of
the battles and sieges, with analysis at the tactical-level, also
brings out the differences in planning and intelligence gathering.
This particular campaign is important as it has attracted little
attention from historians, and was crucial as a turning point in
the Peninsular War. This was the last time that Portugal was
invaded by the French during the Peninsular War, and the allies'
handling of the campaign contrasted sharply with that of the
French. Its success also gave Wellington political security against
the 'croakers' back in England. The research demonstrates the
difficulties both armies had in prosecuting their plans during the
campaign, and highlights the stark differences in the approach
taken by each commander.
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