Essential Agony: The Battle of Dunbar 1650

by Arran Johnston

On 3 September 1650, two former allies fought a bitter clash of arms in the rain-soaked fields around the quiet seaside town of Dunbar. For one, it was a signal mercy which cemented his reputation and paved the way for political as well as military supremacy. For the other, it meant defeat, occupation, and the end of a cause. In England, Dunbar is remembered as one of Cromwell's most brilliant victories. In Scotland, as an avoidable tragedy caused by the placement of blind faith over sound judgement. And for those whose ancestors suffered in its terrible aftermath, it is a story of both sorrow and survival.

This new analysis of the Battle of Dunbar explores the battlefield and its events in close detail, using the author's intimate knowledge of the landscape. From the high politics to the individual experience, Arran Johnston brings the story of the Dunbar campaign vividly to life and sets its significance within the context of both the seventeenth century and our own times.

228 pages, Paperback

First published November 19, 2019

Reviews

[Joseph Ficklen · Rating 5 out of 5]

A gripping, detailed narrative of the Parliamentarian invasion of Scotland in 1650, the Battle of Dunbar, and the events that followed. The stakes could not have been higher, an exhausted, sick English army with their backs to the sea, surrounded by the Scots on an unassailable position… but Leslie moves off Doon Hill, and Cromwell makes a desperate early morning lunge against the Scottish right. The resulting victory for the English was biblical in its scope, with terrible consequence for the thousands of prisoners and for their nation. I could not put this book down once the main narrative began.

[Harry Glasgow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read!