The Army of George II is often forgotten, as 18th century British
military history is bookended by the victories of the Duke of
Marlborough during the War of the Spanish Succession and the final
defeat of Napoleon by the Duke of Wellington. Yet it was in this period
that Britain rose to prominence, not only as a European, but also as a
world power, defeating the French in India, North America, and the
Caribbean and fighting them in two major wars in Europe. Great leaders
emerged, such as Robert Clive and James Wolfe, whilst the private
soldiers proved themselves to be adaptable, stoic, and, above all, brave
in the face of extreme hardship. This was the army that crushed French
colonial ambitions and in so doing laid the groundwork for the British
Empire.
In this book you will find details of how the army was recruited,
funded, and how it functioned day-to-day. Details are also provided of
the uniforms worn by infantry, artillery, and cavalry; how they were
organised, paid, and punished. There are also new insights into the
logistics of 18th century warfare, how the soldiers performed in battle,
both in Europe and in the colonies, and what medical treatment they
could expect when the battles were over. This book provides a unique
insight into what it was like to serve in the Army of King George II.