Osprey - Elite 102
Santa Anna's Mexican Army 1821-48
By Rene Chartrand

One of the interesting comments that I overheard at a show recently is that you always know just what you are going to get with an Osprey book. The information will be pretty detailed and accurate. The illustrations will be of a consistently high standard, and the photographs when featured will always include something new. Hence I suppose the continuing popularity of the various series from this publisher.

This current volume studies the Mexican Army of General and President Santa Anna. I suppose most people, no doubt inspired by Hollywood history, are aware that Santa Anna was the commander of Mexican forces the slaughtered the defenders of the Alamo. However it may not be so well known that he also commanded the Mexican forces that engaged the US in the war of 1846-8.

The book contains a brief historical background to the period, then goes into more detail of the organisations of the army, the sources of its officer corps, staff training, equipment and various arms, including technical services, militia and specialised troops.

The illustrations are first class with some fascinating photographs of surviving contemporary militaria as well as artwork. Of course though it is the colour plates that really catch the eye, and Bill Younghusband's brush certainly provide inspiration for the wargamer, in a far more effective way than any words could deliver.

In all a fascinating read, well worth it's retail price of £10.99/$16.95

Please remember to mention Wargames Forum when contacting traders!

 Return to Book Reviews  Return to What's New?    Return to Home Page