Summary
This third volume in Sir Charles Oman's monumental series A History of the Peninsular War covers the crucial period between September 1809 and December 1810, during the Napoleonic Wars.
It details the strategic developments, battles, political decisions, and personalities involved in the Peninsular Campaign fought in Spain and Portugal.
Key events include:
The aftermath of the Talavera campaign
The failed Spanish attempts to resist French occupation
The strengthening of Wellington’s army in Portugal
The Lines of Torres Vedras, Wellington’s remarkable defensive works that halted the French advance
French operations under Marshal Masséna, especially the invasion of Portugal
The Battle of Bussaco (September 1810)
Oman, a meticulous historian, presents the narrative with detailed maps, orders of battle, primary sources, and critical analysis of commanders' decisions and tactics.