Wellington's Cavalry and Technical Corps, 1800–1815

Book excerpt: While artillery has been described as the queen of the Napoleonic battlefield, this was an era when cavalry could still play a decisive role in battle, as well as being vital on campaign. This volume covers both British cavalry and artillery of the Napoleonic Wars, as well as supporting units such as engineers. Gabriele Esposito describes the history, organization and uniforms of the various units in full detail, following the evolution and combat history of each. Mounted troops deployed in the various British colonies as well as foreign cavalry units in British service will be all covered in specific chapters. The technical corps, most notably the artillery (both foot and horse) and the engineers, are given similar treatment. Royal Marines naval infantry and some other 'auxiliary' corps (like the Yeomanry/militia cavalry or the Sea Fencibles, all very little known) are also included. The book is lavishly illustrated with dozens of color paintings.