J. W. Fortescue's 'History of the British Army' is a meticulously researched and comprehensive account of the evolution and achievements of the British military from its early beginnings to the 19th century. Fortescue's writing style is both engaging and informative, offering readers a detailed narrative of key battles, strategies, and developments within the British Army. His attention to detail and thorough analysis provide a valuable resource for scholars and history enthusiasts alike, shedding light on the military tactics and leadership that shaped British history. In the context of military history, Fortescue's work stands as a landmark achievement, setting the standard for future studies on the British Army. Volume 1 explores the early history of the army, while Volume 2 delves into the army's role in major conflicts such as the Napoleonic Wars and the Peninsular War. Filled with firsthand accounts and historical insights, this two-volume set is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the British military's legacy. J. W. Fortescue's 'History of the British Army' is a definitive resource for those seeking a deeper insight into the military history of Britain.

The empire at war -- Weakness of the home base -- Imperial problems old and new -- Searching for imperial manpower -- The Irish ulcer -- India -- The defence of Suez -- Persia and Mesopotamia -- Conclusion.

Sir John Fortescue holds a pre-eminent place amongst British military historians, his enduring fame and legacy resting mainly on his life’s work “The History of the British Army”, According to Professor Brian Bond, the work was “the product of indefatigable research in original documents, a determination to present a clear, accurate, and readable narrative of military operations, and a close personal knowledge of the battlefields, which enabled him to elucidate his account with excellent maps. Most important, however, was his motivation: namely, a lifelong affection for the old, long-service, pre-Cardwell army, the spirit of the regiments of which it largely consisted, and the value of its traditions to the nation. An important part of his task was to distil and inculcate these soldierly virtues which, in his conservative view, contrasted sharply with the unedifying character of politicians who habitually meddled in military matters.” ODNB. This third volume covers the period from 1763-1793, the European Powersfought each other via proxy but great vigour in North America and India. The British Army would have great success in India under military leaders of the calibre of Abercromby, Cornwallis and Warren Hastings. however the loss of the American Revolutionary War, gained for the Americans their Independence and the British troops, hamstrung by political foolishness, a humbling defeat. TIMES.—"Whatever Mr. Fortescue may do in the future, he has already, in his first three volumes, produced one of the most important military works in the English language. It is sincerely to be hoped that they will be read as widely as they deserve to be." ARMY AND NAVY GAZETTE.—"The Hon. J. W. Fortescue is greatly to be congratulated upon the third volume of his very important History of the British Army....With the publication of this book the British Army is gaining a complete history really worthy of the name." A MUST READ for any military enthusiast.