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Osprey Fortress No 7
The Lines Of Torres Vedras 1809-11
By Ian Fletcher: Illustrated by Bill Younghusband
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The greatest military secret of the Peninsular War, and arguably the most important element in the successful defence of Portugal were the Lines of Torres Vedras. This series of defensible
obstacles, including redoubts, trenches, military roads and inundations were constructed
between the river Tagus and the Atlantic Ocean, and bisected the Peninsular of land at the head of which lies Lisbon. Not only important as the capital of Portugal, but strategically vital as a major port facility that allowed to delivery of supplies and reinforcements to the Allied army, and which was the starting point of the few viable supply routes, either by road or water, for armies campaigning in central Portugal.
Ian Fletcher, one of today's foremost Napoleonic military historians, and a
renowned expert of the Peninsular Campaigns of Wellesley has produced an admirable volume with this release. he Considers the strategic importance of the Lines, and sets this within an assessment of the defensive tactical doctrine developed by the Allies.
One thing that I particularly enjoy with Ian's work, is that he walks the ground that he writes about. His assessment of the military situation, or battle reports are educated by his own observations of the terrain, climate and surrounding area. There are a number of military commentators who do not feel this necessary, but (as a battlefield walker myself) I feel such an approach adds a depth of understanding to the subject which may otherwise be lost.
Packed with photographs, contemporary maps and diagrams, the illustrations of Mr Younghusband, and a brief guide to the surviving secions of the lines, this book is a virtual
treasure house of information. If you wish to have anything like a complete understanding of the campaigns in Portugal, and the invasions of Spain I would suggest that this little book would be invaluable.
ISBN 1-84176-576-7
Format Softback: 64 Pages
Price £10.99/$16.95
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