BEGGARS IN RED: The British Army 1789 - 1889

by John Strawson

This was a period in which the British Army did much to astonish the world indulging in spectacular triumphs as well as disastrous defeats. The story encompasses the final dispatch of history's greatest soldier - Napoleon - and the subjugation of Asian and African potentates. It was the century which saw the British tighten their hold on India, extend their Imperial possessions largely by the sword, and at length - despite blunders in the Crimea and mutiny in the Indian Army - establish a peacekeeping cordon around the globe. John Strawson presents a compelling account of Kipling's "Beggars in Red", at first, struggling in vain against French revolutionary armies and its own government's neglect then, with the Duke of York's reforms plus the fine leadership of Sir John Moore and Wellington, gaining skill and confidence, winning battle after battle in the Peninsular and at Waterloo. At a time when reductions in the army again seem imminent, Strawson reminds us that the British regimental system is priceless and indispensable.

Genres: Nonfiction, History

272 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2003

About the author

Major General John Strawson, CBE was a British Army officer, best known for his service during the Second World War in the Middle East and Italy, and afterwards in Germany and Malaya.

Following the amalgamation of the 4th and 8th Hussars as The Queen's Royal Irish Hussars, he commanded the Regiment in Malaysia and Germany. For his leadership during the Borneo campaign he was invested O.B.E. (Officer of the Order of the British Empire).

Later he commanded at brigade level and was Chief of Staff, United Kingdom Land Forces. For this latter service he was advanced to C.B.E. (Commander of the Order of the British Empire). He had previously been awarded the US Bronze Star for his leadership during the Italian campaign of 1944-45. In civilian life he became a prolific author, especially on military matters.

After retiring from the Army, Strawson wrote a number of books of military history and biography, including studies of the British Army. He collaborated with General Sir John Hackett and others in writing the two volumes of "The Third World War". His later books include "The Duke and the Emperor; Wellington and Napoleon" (1994) and "Churchill and Hitler: In Victory and Defeat" (1997).

Reviews

[Robert Hepple · Rating 4 out of 5]

First published in 1991, 'Beggars in Red' gives a potted history of the British Army during the hundred years over 1789-1889, with its staggering range of triumphs and disasters. The author's style makes for an interesting read at all times, and I was especially impressed by the regular Kipling quotes dotted around the text.

[Joseph Sellors · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very interesting and brief history of the 'beggars in red' throughout what was a vital period. With major victories won and appalling defeats suffered the book follows the highs and lows admirably and accurately.