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Wellington Commander: The Iron Duke's generalship

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1986's "Wellington Commander: The Iron Duke's Generalship" contains the results of a seminar held at the Duke's London Residence, Apsley House, on 18 June 1983. However, this is no dry collection of academic leaves. It contains seven first rate essays by recognized experts on warfare, all bound up with an outstanding collection of black and white and color illustrations.

Paddy Griffin provides the introduction and the first chapter, a review of Wellington's life in uniform and his various commands. Michael Glover follows with an essay arguing Wellington's status as an attacking general in the Peninsular War. John Terraine examines Wellington's successes, and failures, as a leader of coalitions in India, Portugal, Spain, and, briefly, the Waterloo Campaign.

The Waterloo Campaign rates its own section. David Howard discusses Wellington's use of the terrain at Mount St. Jean. John Keegan recounts Wellington's movements as commander on the day of battle. Correlli Barnett explains how Napoleon's mistakes played out to Wellington's advantage.

In the final section of the book, Paddy Griffith discusses British battlefield tactics as used by Wellington, while Graeme Rimer notes the weapons in use by Wellington's armies.

The content of this book may be slightly dated on some details, but the essays and illustrations will be a treat for students of Wellington's generalship and campaigns. "Wellington Commander" is very highly recommended, even used, to that audience.