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Books at On Military Matters


Updated as of 3/14`/2024

ABBREVIATIONS: dj-dust jacket, biblio-bibliography, b/w-black and white, illust-illustrations, b/c-book club addition.
rct - recent arrival or pending publication, spc - OMM Special Price
Colonial Wars

1-231330 BRITAIN AGAINST THE XHOSA AND ZULU PEOPLES: Lord Chelmsford's South African Campaigns Britain's war against the Zulu people of southern Africa in the late nineteenth century is one of the most famous clashes in the history of the British empire, but her earlier wars against the Xhosa, also in southern Africa, are far less well known. And, although the role Lord Chelmsford played in the Anglo-Zulu War has been recounted in exhaustive detail, his earlier experience against the Xhosa has rarely been explored in the same intensive way. That is why Stephen Manning's absorbing study of these colonial campaigns and Chelmsford's part in them is so timely and valuable.

Chelmsford's military career and Britain's troubled relationship with the Xhosa people came together in 1878 with the conclusion of the 9th Frontier War, in which Chelmsford commanded the victorious British forces. This conflict is vividly described here. Perhaps Chelmsford learned the wrong lessons from his struggle with the Xhosa because his initial handling of British forces during the Anglo-Zulu War resulted in disaster at the Battle of Isandlwana. Although Chelmsford regained the initiative and his forces defeated the Zulus at Gingindlovu and Ulundi, his reputation never recovered. 1 vol, 240 pgs 2022 UK, PEN & SWORD
NEW-dj, available late July 2022 ......$50.00 with a discount of 15% rct

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1-67903 anon CAMPAIGNING IN AFGHANISTAN 1842 Journal of the last three months' operations in Afghanistan extracted from a Journal of anOfficer in her Majesty's 13th Light Infantry in India 1841-1842. 1 vol, 40 pgs 2001 CAMBRIDGE, KEN TROTMAN
NEW-softcover ......$12.00

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1-196760 Atwood, Rodney ROBERTS AND KITCHENER IN SOUTH AFRICA: 1900-1902 The British Army was shocked by three military defeats during one week in South Africa in late 1900. The commander, General Sir Redvers Buller, lost his nerve. 'Something must be done' was the cry across the Empire. Britain sent forth not one, but two military heroes.

Field Marshal Lord Roberts and Major General Lord Kitchener spent their first five weeks in South Africa restoring morale, reorganizing their forces and deceiving the enemy as to their intentions. In the next four weeks their offensive transformed the war: Kimberley and Ladysmith were relieved from Boer sieges and an enemy force of 4000 under General Cronje was captured on the Modder River. A long and bitter guerrilla war ensured in a terrain ideally suited to fast-moving Boer commandoes.

On the dark side, deeds were committed of which no civilized empire priding itself on justice and fair play could be proud, including the first use of 'concentration camps.' The comradeship-in-arms of Roberts and Kitchener, their differing yet complementary personalities, their strategic and tactical decisions are described and assessed using a wide variety of sources including, personal papers and official correspondence. Through their resourcefulness the British Army, despite its unpreparedness and poor leadership at many levels, won a remarkable victory in the first of the twentieth century 'People's Wars.' Includes eight pages of b/w plates. 1 vol, 272 pgs 2011 UK, PEN & SWORD
NEW-dj, available late November 2011 ......$50.00 with a discount of 15%

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1-28580 Bancroft, N.W. FROM RECRUIT TO STAFF SERGEANT Story of life in the Bengal Horse Artillery from 1833 to 1866, Bancroft describes the campaigns he was in, with particular emphasis on the Sikh wars. 1 vol, 106 pgs 1979 LONDON, IAN HENRY PUBLI'S
GOOD-dj REPRINT OF 1900 EDITION ......$30.00

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3-84500 Barthorp, Michael ZULU WAR, THE: A Pictorial History As the title says, photographs, illustrations, maps, and paintings populate the book. The text offers a concise account of the British invasions and Zulu counterattacks, offering a wealth of uniform information for all the various units and touching on all the major battles, including Isandhlwana, Rorke's Drift, Eshowe, Gingindhlovu, Hlobane, and others.

Includes index, bibliography, and two appendices -- one listing British units and one listing Zulu units. 1 vol, 181 pgs 1984 LONDON, BLANDFORD PRESS
GOOD-softcover, one copy only - first come, first served ......$10.00 inc

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1-237580 Benneyworth, Garth THE BATTLE OF MAGERSFONTEIN: Victory and Defeat on the South African Veld, 10-12 December 1899 Examines the maneuvers and battles that led up to the battle of Magersfontein, fought during the South African War of 1899-1902 (also known as the Second Anglo-Boer War). Uses never before published diaries, letters, photographs, maps, battle orders, official histories and reports, personal reflections, regimental histories of the war, and survivor interviews. The originals, including Dutch and Afrikaans language accounts, are held in extensive archives in the Kimberley and Bloemfontein museums as well as other archives, libraries, museums, and private collections in the UK, South Africa, and Australia.

Consequently, original findings emerge, with regards to Boer positioning and tactics, a British outflanking maneuver at Magersfontein Hill that almost worked, and Boer counter attacks, and the use of mobility, rather than the previously expounded notion that they sat passively parked in trenches, as most narratives present. Includes 25 b/w illustrations, 118 b/w photos, 1 color illustration, 11 color photos, and 11 maps. 1 vol, 250 pgs 2023 UK, HELION AND COMPANY
NEW-pb, available early July 2023 ......$50.00 with a discount of 15% rct

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1-COM028 Bishop, Dennis COMMAND # 28: LIKE LIONS THEY FOUGHT - Anglo-Zulu War Features:

* US Combat Commands In Action: Battle of Singling, 6 Dec 1944.
* The Iran-Iraq War: Siege of Basra
* Paper Tigers: German Free India Legion, 1943-45
* Caught on the Reef of History: USS Philadelphia and the Barbary Pirates
* D-Elim: When Eagles Fight strategies
* Variants: Chaco (new supply rules), Back to Iraq (map changes), Smithereens (2 players, historical setup)
* Errata: When Tigers Fight, Proud Monster

Issue Game:
* Like Lions They Fought: The Anglo-Zulu War, 1879
* D-Elim: Strategies for Like Lions They Fought 1 vol, 60 pgs 1990's CA, XTR PUBLSHING
AS NEW-softcover, unpunched - available (1) copy ......$35.00

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1-231373 Blake, Mike FORCES OF THE BOXER REBELLION & THE EIGHT POWER WAR: Volume 3 - The Dragon Subdued Third volume in a well-illustrated series offers a comprehensive account of the war, campaigns, and battles, as well as a detailed study of the armies and color uniforms involved. First two volumes are: The Dragon Provoked and The Dragon Rampant. Covers the Boxers, Imperial Chinese, and British forces. 1 vol, 200 pgs 2023 UK, PARTIZAN PRESS
NEW-hardback ......$63.00 inc

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1-24390 Brckenbury, Major General Henry RIVER COLUMN, THE Classic account of the movement of the British in the Sudan. 1 vol, 200 pgs 1993 NASHVILLE, BATTERY PRESS
NEW-dj ......$35.00

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1-202780 Brice, Christopher THINKING MAN'S SOLDIER, THE: The Life and Career of General Sir Henry Brackenbury 1837-1914 Sir Henry Brackenbury is a now largely forgotten but extremely important soldier, writer, and administrator of the late Victorian era. To Lord Wolseley Brackenbury was 'not one of but the cleverest man in the army' and 'that first-rate man of business,' to the conservative Duke of Cambridge he was 'a very dangerous man' whilst King Edward VII remembered him as the man who 'pulled the army out of a hole in South Africa.'

Born to a minor Lincolnshire landowning family of modest but comfortable means, and as the youngest son of a youngest son, it was always essential that Henry Brackenbury have a 'career.' Although initially studying for the legal profession, he was commissioned as a Lieutenant in the Royal Artillery in 1856.

He saw active service during the Indian Mutiny, but after that he settled down into a series of administrative and teaching appointments within the Royal Artillery and as Professor of Military History at the Royal Military Academy Woolwich. Finding he had a considerable amount of spare time on his hands he was encouraged to write a history of the origins of artillery in Europe. With this he started an illustrious literary career which would see him produce five books alongside a large number of journal and newspaper articles. He had a simple narrative style alongside an ability to engage the more technical reader. Being of limited personal means, the financial success of his literary work was extremely important.

The reminder of his career saw him undertake three key administrative posts: First of the Head of the Intelligence Branch of the War Office and then as Military Member of the Governor General of India, where he combined the roles of a Chief of Staff and Secretary of State for War completely reforming the administrative and financial systems of the Indian Army and establishing the Indian Army's first mobilization scheme. Finally as Director General of the Ordnance he had to deal with the large scale demands of the South African War. 1 vol, 208 pgs 2013 UK, HELION and COMPANY
NEW-dj, available late August 2013 ......$60.00 with a discount of 15%

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1-88340 Burton, Reginald Burton FIRST AND SECOND SIKH WARS:Offical British Army The Sikh Wars of the 1840s were the final battles that secured British domination of the Indian Sub-continent. In 1911 the British Army produced this work, o/b's, maps, appendices, index 1 vol, 150 pgs 2004 US, WESTHOLME PUBLISHING
NEW-pb, facsimile of 1911 edition ......$19.00

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1-235520 Clammer, David ONWARDS TO OMDURMAN: The Anglo-Egyptian Campaign to Reconquer the Sudan, 1896-1898 To fully understand how and why an Anglo-Egyptian army arrived to fight at Omdurman, the book takes a fresh look at the Sudan campaign as a whole, discussing how modern technology was used to overcome the vagaries of the desert and the river Nile. Thus, railway lines were built to bring troops and supplies across the desert. Communications were enhanced by miles of telegraph wire. Control of the Nile was ensured by British-built gunboats, armed with machine guns and artillery and the Anglo-Egyptian army carried modern rifles, machine guns, and artillery.

General Kitchener had witnessed Britain's failed Sudan campaign in 1884-85 to rescue General Gordon at Khartoum because of too much haste and not enough forethought. Kitchener did not make the same mistakes. Moreover, he and his officers never underestimated the fighting prowess of their enemy. Includes 30 b/w illustrations, 8 b/w photos, 9 color illustrations, and 13 maps.

Discusses how and why Britain was involved in Egypt and why the decision was made to invade Mahdist Sudan. It then considers the political, social and military organization of the Khalifa's domain. The book also examines the Egyptian army and provides details later on the British contingent. The various stages of Kitchener's advance are then discussed. Examines the 2 September 1898 battle with emphasis that the Mahdists battle plan was poorly executed, hence their defeat. Although it took another year before the Khalifa was defeated and killed, the battle at Omdurman ended a two-year campaign that had utilized the power of modern Victorian technology. 1 vol, 170 pgs 2022 UK, HELION AND COMPANY
NEW-pb ......$45.00 with a discount of 15% inc

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1-237590 Driver, Hugh CONTROLLING THE FRONTIER: Southern Africa 1806-1828, The Cape Frontier Wars and The Fetcani Alarm Explores the struggle to determine and stabilize the frontier of southern Africa's Cape Colony in the aftermath of the British occupation in 1806, especially the troop movements arising out of the Napoleonic Wars that would later contribute to bush warfare, with an emphasis on Colonel John Graham's controversial method of frontier control implemented in the wake of the Fourth Cape Frontier War of 1811-1812.

Examines events leading up to the Battle of Grahamstown in April 1819 - notably the inter-Xhosa Battle of Amalinde in October 1818 -- as well as the entire Fifth Cape Frontier War. The book then discusses the development and deployment of colonial forces beyond the frontier in the aftermath of the war, culminating in a British campaign on the Umtata and the highly contentious and much misunderstood Battle of Mbolompo in August 1828. Includes 42 b/w illustrations, 4 b/w photos, and 3 maps. 1 vol, 134 pgs 2023 UK, HELION AND COMPANY
NEW-pb, available mid July 2023 ......$45.00 with a discount of 15% rct

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2-34150 Duncan, John and Walton, John HEROES FOR VICTORIA 1837-1901 Oversized at 11.2x7.8 inches. Describes the many gallant officers and men who saw service in the 'wars' of Queen Victoria, with accounts from a multitude of climates in Asia and Africa. A multitude of b/w illustrations. 1 vol, 192 pgs 1991 UK, SPELLMOUNT LIMITED
NEW-dj, 4 copies available ......$26.00

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1-63410 Farwell, Bryon ENCYCLOPEDIA OF 19TH CENTURY LAND WARFARE, THE 8.5x11, nearly 1000 b/w illust/maps, global inreach, covers Latin America rebellions; African,Indian & Southeast Asian conflicts, Chinese andJapanese and lots more, biblio, index. 1 vol, 928 pgs 2000 NY, W.W. NORTON
NEW-dj ......$75.00

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1-40480 Farwell, Byron ARMIES OF THE RAJ Description of the Indian Armies of Queen Victoria 1 vol, 400 pgs 19?? NY, W.W. NORTON COMPANY
NEW-softcover ......$20.00

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1-76600 Farwell, Byron MR. KIPLING'S ARMY:All the Queen's Men This book explores the outrageous, but often braveand glorious, story of Britain's Victorian Army.B/w drawings, illust, index. 1 vol, 256 pgs 19?? NY, W.W. NORTON COMPANY
NEW-softcover ......$15.00

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3-76600 Farwell, Byron MR. KIPLING'S ARMY:All the Queen's Men This book explores the outrageous, but often braveand glorious, story of Britain's Victorian Army.B/w drawings, illust, index. 1 vol, 256 pgs 1981 NY, W.W. NORTON & COMPANY
GOOD-dj ......$15.00

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1-84014 Fastoso, Mark MAXIMILIAN IN MEXICO (10) Wargame Scenarios 1 vol, 64 pgs 2006 FAIRAFX, J&D PUBLICATIONS
NEW-softcover ......$20.00

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1-84011 Fastoso, Mark intro by Larry Brom COLONIAL CAMPAIGNS:Ethiopia 1887-1896 (10) Wargame Scenarios including THE BATTLE OF SAATI 1887; BATTLE OF GALLABAT 1889 Dervish versus Ethiopians; BATTLE OF AGORDAT 1893 Dervish versus Italians and seven more. 1 vol, 68 pgs 2002 US, MARK FASTOSO
NEW-softcover ......$20.00

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1-84012 Fastoso, Mark intro by Larry Brom COLONIAL CAMPAIGNS:Boxer Rebellion (10) Wargame Scenarios covering Admiral Seymour's Relief Attempt; scenarios cover Chinese Army vs Boxers, Chinese vs Europeans and Boxers vs Relief Force, maps and o/b's. 1 vol, 68 pgs 2003 US, MARK FASTOSO
NEW-softcover ......$20.00

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1-84013 Fastoso, Mark intro by Larry Brom ZULU WARS (10) Wargame Scenarios 1 vol, 64 pgs 2006 FAIRAFX, J&D PUBLICATIONS
NEW-softcover ......$25.00

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2-95400 Fredericks, Pierce G. SEPOY AND THE COSSACK, THE The story of the clash between Russia & Englandfor India in the 19th century. Index, biblio. 1 vol, 274 pgs 1971 LONDON, W.H. ALLEN LTD
GOOD-dj ......$22.00

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1-205770 French, Gerald D.S.O. LORD CHELMSFORD AND THE ZULU WAR The Anglo-Zulu war of 1879 was perhaps subjected to much controversy as a result of the epic Zulu victory at the battle of Isandlwana. Lord Chelmsford, the General Officer commanding the invasion force during the war, sustained severe criticism from both journalists and parliament following his actions and conduct at Isandlwana.

In 1939 and on the 60th anniversary of the battle, Major, the Hon Gerald French, wrote this controversial but riveting book titled based on defending both Lord Chelmsford's actions and reputation. The foreword to the book was written by General Sir Bindon Blood who served under Chelmsford in India and a devoted admirer.

French however, had fallen into the error of selective inaccurate source material and false reports that were, at the time, specifically designed to shield Lord Chelmsford from the Isandlwana debacle and conveniently lay such blame on the shoulders of Colonel Anthony Durnford, Royal Engineers, who was present at Isandlwana.

For example, French deliberately altered a map that showed the true disposition of the imperial defense line at the battle in order for readers to reach the conclusion that the primary course of the defeat was the retreat of the Natal Native Contingent which opened a gap in the defense, thus allowing an unopposed Zulu advance.

The book is nevertheless a comprehensive and detailed coverage of the Anglo Zulu war from the initial invasion to the final battle of Ulundi some months later, and has been used extensively as bibliography by authors when addressing the subject of the Anglo-Zulu war. This book is highly recommended for those with a historical interest of the events of 1879 and the demise of the Zulu nation.
1 vol, 360 pgs 2014 UK, PEN & SWORD
NEW-dj, available early July 2014 ......$50.00 with a discount of 15%

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1-226380 Fuller, Howard TURRETT VERSUS BROADSIDE: An Anatomy of British Naval Prestige, Revolution and Disaster 1860-1870 Analysis of the great 'turret vs. broadside' debate sheds new light on how the most well-funded and professional navy in the world, at the height of its power, could nevertheless build an 'inherently unstable' capital ship -- the low-freeboard yet fully-masted ironclad HMS Captain that capsized in 1870. Includes 46 color and b/w illustrations.

Uses an impressive array of government reports, contemporary periodicals, and unpublished personal papers. Provides a long-term and international context to this debate amidst a growing emphasis upon new technologies of ever-heavier guns and ever-thicker armor.

As the geopolitical debate over rival ironclad proposals intensified, aggressively-minded Prime Minister Lord Palmerston gradually adopted a non-interventionist foreign policy which surprised his contemporaries. Turret vs. Broadside traces the previously unexplored connection between an increasingly schizophrenic Admiralty for and against the Captain, for example, and saber-rattling mid-Victorians sinking into an era of 'Splendid Isolation.'
1 vol, 116 pgs 2021 UK, HELION AND COMPANY
NEW-softcover, available early February 2021 ......$50.00 with a discount of 15% rct

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1-18760 Glover, Michael RORKE'S DRIFT:A Victorian Epic Excellent account, maps, biblio, index, b/w illust. 1 vol, 146 pgs 1998 LONDON, WORDSWORTH PUBS
NEW-pb ......$15.00 with a discount of 15%

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1-66654 Gomez, Antonio L. Martin LOS COMBATES DE CEUTA:Guerra de Africa, 1859-60 The campaign by the Spanish against the Empire of Morocco to secure their coastal enclaves of Cueta and Melilla. 1 vol, 80 pgs 2012 ITALY
NEW-pb in SPANISH ......$24.00

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1-66658 Gomez, Antonio L. Martin LA BATALLA DE LOS CASTILLEJOS:Guerra de Africa 1859-60, v2 in this series. Covers the Spanish advance to Tetuan, color and b/w plates, illust. 1 vol, 80 pgs 2012 ITALY
NEW-pb in SPANISH ......$24.00

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2-197840 Greaves, Adrian ISANDLWANA: How the Zulus Humbled the British Empire The story of the mighty imperial British army's defeat at Iswandlwana in 1879 has been much written about, but never with the detail and insight revealed by Dr Adrian Greaves' research. In reconstructing the dramatic and fateful events, the Author draws on recently discovered letters, diaries and papers of survivors and other contemporaries such as Henry Harford, Lt Henry Carling of the Royal Artillery, August Hammar and young British nurse Janet Wells. These, coupled with his own detailed knowledge of the ground, enable the author to paint the most accurate picture yet of this cataclysmic battle that so shamed the British establishment.

We learn for the first time of the complex Zulu decoy, the dishonorable attempt to blame Colonel Durnford for the defeat, evidence of another 'fugitives' trail' and the identity of previously unknown escorts for Lts Coghill and Melville, both awarded VCs for trying to save the Colors.

Isandlwana is a brilliant and fresh account of this most famous battle which will fascinate experts and laymen alike. 6x9 inches and 16 pages of b/w plates. 1 vol, 224 pgs 2012 UK, PEN AND SWORD
NEW-softcover ......$25.00 with a discount of 15%

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1-242800 Greaves, Adrian AN ILLUSTRATED TOUR OF THE ANGLO-ZULU BATTLEFIELDS This book gives the reader a general overview of the Anglo-Zulu war of 1879 with descriptive text, location photographs, and map overviews of the twelve main battles including Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift. The author's unique maps are based on his own lecture notes and 'battlefield map handouts' as a Zulu War battlefield guide for over 25 years. At the suggestion of the Anglo Zulu War Historical Society, these maps are now reproduced in book form. Contains 50 color illustrations and 30 mono illustrations. 1 vol, 208 pgs 2024 UK, PEN & SWORD
NEW-dj, available mid March 2024 ......$37.00 with a discount of 15% rct

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1-85840 Greaves, Adrian & Knight, Ian WHO'S WHO IN THE ANGLO ZULU WAR 1879:V1 British Covers all the main players be they military, political or civilian with concise readable bios. 1 vol, 256 pgs 2007 UK, PEN & SWORD
NEW-dj ......$50.00 with a discount of 15%

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1-85842 Greaves, Adrian & Knight, Ian WHO'S WHO IN THE ANGLO ZULU WAR 1879:V1 Colonials Covers all the main players be they military, political or civilian with concise readable bios. Also includes the Zulus. 1 vol, 272 pgs 2007 UK, PEN & SWORD BOOKS
NEW-dj ......$40.00 with a discount of 15%

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1-18360 Heathcote, T.A. INDIAN ARMY, THE:Garrison of British India Covers the Units British Imperial India, 1822-1922. B/w maps, illust, appendix, biblio, index. 1 vol, 215 pgs 1974 UK, DAVID & CHARLES LMTD
V.GOOD-dj, rx libra ......$48.00

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1-25980 Hervey, Captain Albert SOLDIER OF THE COMPANY, A:Life of an Indian Ensign Memoirs of a young man in pre-mutiny India 1833-43. Color and b/w illust. 1 vol, 224 pgs 1992 LONDON, MICHAEL JOSEPH
AS NEW-dj ......$25.00

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1-238250 Kling, Stephen Siege of Khartoum The Siege of Khartoum is a low to moderate complexity tactical game covering the Mahdist siege of Egyptian-occupied Khartoum during the Mahdist Revolution. The game takes about 90 minutes to play. One player commands the Mahdist units and the other player commands the Egyptian and British units. Cards allow variety of play.

PLAYERS: 1-2
AGE: 14+
TIME TO PLAY: 90 Minutes
DESIGNER: Stephen L. Kling, Jr.
CONTENTS:

48 game pieces (5/8' inch)
A single rulebook (4 pages)
20 game cards
1 CANVAS game map (11x17' inch)
1 six sided die 1 vol, 1 pgs 2022 US, THE HISTORICAL GAME COMPANY
NEW-box, available mid August 2023 ......$40.00 rct

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1-190490 Knight, Ian COMPANION TO THE ANGLO-ZULU WAR The author presents succinct summaries of the issues, events, armies and individuals involved. 1 vol, 251 pgs 2008 UK, PEN & SWORD BOOKS
NEW-dj ......$40.00 with a discount of 15%

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1-194850 Knight, Ian VOICES FROM THE ZULU WAR: Campaigning Through the Eyes of the British Soldier, 1879 The forces of the independent Zulu kingdom inflicted a crushing defeat on British imperial forces at Isandlwana in January 1879. The Zulu army was not, however, a professional force, unlike its British counterpart, but was the mobilized manpower of the Zulu state. Ian Knight details how the Zulu army functioned and ties its role firmly to the broader context of Zulu society and culture.

After surveying the Zulu army from its creation during the wars of Shaka in the early nineteenth century, and the subsequent development of Zulu fighting methods, Ian Knight focuses in detail on the structure and condition of the Zulu army on the eve of the war in 1879. This book describes such key topics as enlistment, organization, training and equipment. He also considers Zulu war aims and strategy, their view of artillery and cavalry, and how they were perceived by their colonial neighbors. Most of all, he reveals how the Zulu army functioned in wartime, from preparatory rituals to battlefield tactics, and the shock of battle itself.

6 x 9.25-inch with eight pages of plates.
1 vol, 280 pgs 2011, UK, Frontline Books
NEW-softcover, available April 2011 ......$33.00 with a discount of 15%

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1-37680 Knight, Ian THE ANATOMY OF THE ZULU ARMY: From Shaka to Cetshwayo, 1818-1879 Covers the Anglo-Zulu wars -- from Shaka to Cetshwayo -- from the Zulu perspective, including training, dress, weapons, and more. Includes b/w illustrations, maps, bibliography, and index.

The Zulu army had its roots in the early groups of young men who took part in combats between tribes, but such warfare was limited to disputes over cattle ownership, grazing rights, or avenging insults. In the early 19th century, the Zulu nation began a period of rapid expansion, and King Shaka began to reform his forces into regular military units.

The Zulu Army was not, however, a professional force, unlike its British counterpart, but was the mobilized manpower of the Zulu state. This charts the development and training of the men that formed the impi which later operated so successfully under King Cetshwayo. It details how the Zulu army functioned and ties its role firmly to the broader context of Zulu society and culture. 1 vol, 272 pgs 2016 UK, FRONTLINE BOOKS
NEW-pb, available late April 2016 ......$25.00 with a discount of 15%

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1-87230 Knight, Ian BRAVE MEN'S BLOOD: EPIC OF THE ZULU WAR, 1879 Geared toward the general reader. Provides aconcise history of the Zulu state and the causesof the war. B/W photos and illusts. Glossary,biblio., index and maps. 1 vol, 200 pgs 1990 UK, Greenhill Books
V.GOOD-dj ......$15.00

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1-972003 Knight, Ian 003 COMBAT: British Infantryman vs Zulu Warrior Anglo-Zulu War 1879 The short but savage Anglo-Zulu War of 1879 pitched well-equipped but complacent British soldiers into combat with the Zulu, one of history's finest fighting forces. The clashes between these two different armies prompted tactical innovation on both sides, as the British and their Zulu opponents sought to find the optimal combination of mobility, protection and firepower.

This study traces the changing face of infantry combat in the Anglo-Zulu War. Three major engagements are detailed: the Zulu ambush at Nyezane, repulsed by the British using their established tactics; the shocking defeat and massacre of outmaneuvered British forces in savage close-quarter fighting at Isandlwana; and the British victory at Khambula following their adoption of more condensed firing lines and prepared positions. 1 vol, 80 pgs 2013 UK, OSPREY PUBLISHING
NEW-softcover, available late October 2013 ......$22.00 with a discount of 15%

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1-220670 Laband, John THE FALL OF RORKE'S DRIFT: An Alternate History of the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879 After that brutal defeat on 22 January 1879 at Isandlwana, the British Army is at Rorke's Drift on the Buffalo River in Natal Province, South Africa. A few hundred British and colonial troops led by Lieutenants John Chard of the Royal Engineers and Gonville Bromhead face the might of the Zulu army of thousands led by Prince Dabulamanzi kampande (CORR). Against the odds, the British are victorious and this defeat marks the end of the Zulu nation's dominance of the region. But what if the Zulus had defeated the British at Rorke's Drift and invaded Natal?

In this alternate history of the Anglo-Zulu War, historian John Laband offers a tantalizing glimpse of a very different outcome weaving a compelling and never-before told story of what could have been. 1 vol, 256 pgs 2019 UK, PEN & SWORD
NEW-dj, available late June 2019 ......$35.00 with a discount of 15% rct

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1-230020 Laband, John THE ZULU KINGDOM AND THE BOER INVASION: 1837-1840 Covers the invasion in 1837 of the Zulu kingdom by Boers migrating from the British Cape Colony, and the massacres, battles, and civil war that ensued between 1838-1840 as the Zulu resisted the settlers with spear against musket. Many Afrikaners long celebrated their partial victory as the God-given justification for their subsequent dominion over Africans, while today Africans commemorate the war for its significance in their struggle against colonialism. Includes 24 b/w illustrations, 16 color illustrations, and 11 maps.

Changing perceptions in a post-colonial world require the reassessment of wars of colonial aggression, but there is no book in English that engages with the war between the Boers and Zulu in its entire context or takes the Zulu evidence into proper account. This work attempts to do so. While dealing with the warring sides as even-handedly as possible and contrasting their military systems, it also makes a point of developing the less familiar Zulu perspective, explaining political motivation, strategic military objectives, and fissures in the royal house. Further, the book situates the Great Trek of the Boers, or Voortrekkers, in the context of the many migrations taking place at that time in southern Africa as the result of widespread political and social upheavals, of which the militarily powerful Zulu kingdom had been the most significant outcome.

The book begins with the journey of the Voortrekkers over the highveld form the Cape Colony towards Zululand where they intended to settle, and with the war they fought and won in 1836-1837 against the Ndebele, an offshoot of the Zulu whose military system they shared. The battle of Vegkop proved the superiority of musket-fire directed from a secure wagon laager against an enemy armed primarily with spears, and would be the model for successful Boer engagement against the Zulu in 1838 at the battles of Veglaer and Blood River. The campaign of 1838 also demonstrated that the Zulu was masters of surprise, ambush, and maneuver in the open field that resulted in their victories at the battles of Bloukrans, eThaleni, the Thukela and the White Mfolozi.

The war reached a stalemate by the end of 1838 but Dingane, the Zulu king, had been discredited by his inability to expel the Boers from the southern part of his kingdom. His half-brother Mpande then rebelled against him and, in alliance with the Boers, overthrew him in 1840. The Boers recognized Mpande as king over a reduced Zulu kingdom that maintained its independence until the British invasion of 1879. 1 vol, 238 pgs 2022 UK, HELION AND COMPANY
NEW-pb, available late March 2022 ......$45.00 with a discount of 15% rct

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1-240120 Laband, John THE SHADOW OF ISANDLWANA: The Life and Times of General Lord Chelmsford and his Disaster in Zululand Biography explores the personal character and military career of British General Lord Chelmsford, who served in the Crimean War, the Indian Mutiny, and the Abyssinian Expedition, before commanding the British invasion of the Zulu Kingdom in South Africa. In January 1879, disaster struck when Chelmsford divided his forces at Isandlwana in the face of the enemy and the Zulu overwhelmed his camp, killing more than 1,300 of its defenders. Such a defeat was almost unprecedented in a Victorian colonial campaign. Despite Chelmsford's later victories at Gingindlovu and Ulundi, he was humiliatingly relieved of his command. His responsibility for Isandlwana dogged him for the rest of his days, and he would forever be associated with this historic defeat. 1 vol, 272 pgs 2023 UK, GREENHILL BOOKS
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1-67950 Laband, John ATLAS OF THE LATER ZULU WARS, THE:1883-1888 The author examines the bitter civil war and lastditch resistance to colonialism through the warsand battles, illust, biblio, index. 1 vol, 139 pgs 2002 SA, UNIVERSITY OF NATAL
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1-194810 Laurie, Willam Ferguson Second Burmese War, The: A Narrative of the Operations at Rangoon in 1852 An account of the Second Anglo-Burmese War, undertaken to promote the activities of British colonial merchants in the region, and to avenge perceived 'insults, injustice and oppression' of British representatives by the Burmese court. A detailed account of the campaign, first published in 1853, as seen through the eyes of an English officer, with sketch maps of the defenses of Rangoon and Bassein. Includes two b/w illustrations and four fold-out maps and plans. 1 vol, 280 pgs 2002 THAILAND, ORCHID PRESS
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1-193220 Lock, Ron Zulu Conquered: The March of the Red Soldiers, 1822-1888 The first Britons to reach Zululand were a handful of shipwrecked traders. They found themselves completely at the mercy of a nation whose name would become a byword for ferocity and courage. The castaways were fearful of their lives but, to their surprise, were well treated and prospered.

At the time, the Indian Ocean shoreline of the Zulu kingdom extended for almost 400 miles, whilst its inland frontiers reached as far as the Drakensberg mountains. Fifty years later the kingdom had diminished by half, followed by a threat that it would shortly cease to exist.

And so it was, in December 1878, as Cetshwayo ka Mpande, the Zulu king, contemplated the British ultimatum with which he knew it would be impossible to comply, he pondered on the past and with bitterness mused: 'first came the traders, then came the missionaries and then came the red soldiers'. But British traders, missionaries and her red soldier army had been invidiously advancing into Zululand for decades, their every encounter and demand bringing the red soldiers closer to the Zulu army of 40,000 disciplined warriors -- 'the bravest of a brave nation'.

Zulu Conquered, with more than 90 vivid illustrations, describes the adventure, treachery and rampage that ensued between Zulu, Boer and Briton during the sixty years separating the arrival of the first white man to the destruction of the Zulu army, the death of King Cetshwayo and, finally, the devastation of Zululand. 1 vol, 256 pgs 2010 UK, FRONTLINE BOOKS
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1-210680 Lock, Ron and Quantrill, Peter ZULU VICTORY: The Epic of Isandlwana and the Cover-up The 22 January 1879 Battle of Isandlwana saw a Zulu victory over the British. The obvious culprit for the blunder was Lieutenant General Lord Chelmsford, the defeated commander. Appearing to respond to the outcry, he ordered a court of inquiry. But there followed a carefully conducted cover-up in which Chelmsford found a scapegoat in the dead - most notably, in Colonel Anthony Durnford.

Using source material ranging from the Royal Windsor Archives to the oral history passed down to the present Zulu inhabitants of Isandlwana, this gripping history exposes the full extent of the blunders of this famous battle and the scandal that followed. It also gives full credit to the masterful tactics of the 20,000 strong Zulu force and to Ntshingwayo kaMahole, for the way in which he comprehensively out-generalled Chelmsford. 1 vol, 304 pgs 2016 UK, FRONTLINE BOOKS
NEW-pb, available mid February 2016 ......$30.00 with a discount of 15%

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1-35790 Mackinnon, J.P. and Shadbolt S.H. SOUTH AFRICAN CAMPAIGN OF 1879, THE First published in 1880, details the forces in the field, lines of communication, column strengths, bios of the 62 British officers killed, summary of all regiments/naval brigades, maps, new index. 1 vol, 384 pgs 1995 LONDON, GREENHILL PRESS
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1-15160 MacLaren, Roy CANADIANS ON THE NILE:1882-1898 The story of the Canadian 'voyageurs' who helped 'man' the boats up the Nile to Khartoum. Chapter notes, biblio, index, b/w illust. 1 vol, 184 pgs 1978 VANCOUVER, UNIV BRITISH
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1-198000 Matthies, Volker SIEGE OF MAGDALA: The British Empire against the Emperor of Ethiopia In 1867-68, a petty diplomatic dispute between Ethiopian emperor Tewodros II and Queen Victoria led to one of the strangest and most dramatic military campaigns in history. The British Indian Army, with 60,000 men, 30,000 elephants, mules and horses, and a bevy of 'embedded' journalists, observers, and translators -- as well as artists and photographers whose images of the campaign are reproduced in this book -- marched into the Ethiopian highlands, advancing on the mountain fortress of Magdala to rescue a small group of European hostages.

The campaign, described by the British as the world's first major humanitarian intervention, saw the emperor's army annihilated, the hostages freed, and Ethiopian treasures shipped to British museums. But Ethiopian independence was retained. 1 vol, 226 pgs 2011 US, MARKUS WIENER
NEW-softcover, oldie but goodie ......$25.00

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1-25880 Miller, Charles KHYBER: British India's North West Frontier Story of the Khyber Pass and the influence it had on British policy and campaigns, end maps, biblio. 1 vol, 393 pgs 1977 NY, MACMILLAN COMPANY
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1-ST179 Miranda, Joseph S&T #179: The First Afghan War, 1839-42 First Afghan War demonstrates the significant features of warfare in this era, including the great variety in weapons types, the importance of supply, leadership, and the meddling of the Home Office. Players must use organizational as well as tactical capabilities to win. 1 vol, 54 pgs 1996 US, SPI
V.GOOD-softcover unpunched, (1) copy available ......$20.00

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1-239570 Molyneaux, Bill HORNS OF THE BUFFALO: Zulu 1879 Wargame Introductory-level wargame with a series of 1879 engagements between the Zulu and British. Games play in about an hour.

Features: 70 1-inch counters; 12 game maps (11x17 inches); Rulebook; Scenario Book; and one 10-sided dice. 1 vol, 1 pgs 2023 US, BILL MOLYNEAUX GAMES
NEW-box, available mid October 2023 ......$50.00 rct

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1-200080 Olender, Piotr SINO-FRENCH NAVAL WAR: 1884-1885 This new book covers the Sino-French Naval War 1884-1885, a little-known part of late 19th century naval history. The background, operations and outcomes are described in detail. All the ships involved, both French and Chinese, are described and illustrated with full technical specifications. Profusely illustrated with scale drawings and photos. 1 vol, 144 pgs 2012 POLAND, MMP
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1-206120 Olender, Piotr Sino-Japanese Naval War 1894-1895 This new book covers the Sino-Japan Naval War 1894-1895, a little-known part of late 19thC naval history. 200 b/w photos, scale plans, 8x12

The First Sino-Japanese War (1 August 1894 - 17 April 1895) was fought between Qing Dynasty China and Meiji Japan, primarily over control of Korea. After more than six months of continuous successes by the Japanese army and naval forces, as well as the loss of the Chinese port of Weihai, the Qing leadership sued for peace in February 1895.

The background, operations and outcomes are described in detail. All the ships involved, both Japanese and Chinese, are described and illustrated with full technical specifications. Profusely illustrated with scale drawings, maps, drawings and rare photos.
1 vol, 180 pgs 2014 UK, MMP BOOKS
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1-199170 Outram, James Rough Notes of the Campaign in Sinde and Affghanistan, in 1838-9 These extracts from the personal journal of Sir James Outram (1803-63), which he kept while serving with the 23rd Regiment in the British Army of the Indus, describe the British campaigns in Sindh and Afghanistan in 1838-9.

In the preface to the book, originally published in 1840, the author explains that his 'rough notes' are not attempting a narrative of the military operations but have been printed 'for the perusal of valued friends'.

The work begins in Sindh, where the author joins the campaign that aims to restore Shah Shuja to the throne of Kabul, in the ultimately disastrous First Anglo-Afghan War. It is dedicated to Sir William Macnaghten, who was later killed during negotiations with an Afghan chief. Outram himself later clashed with the Napier family over Sir William Napier's account of the Conquest of Scinde, and both books are also reissued in this series. 1 vol, 286 pgs 2012 UK, CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY PRESS
NEW-softcover, available mid to late August 2012 ......$24.00

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2-69460 Paine, S.C.M. SINO-JAPANESE WAR 1894-95: Japan's Emergence An examination of the Sino-Japanese War of 1894-5, when Japan rapidly defeated China. The European nations saw China as weak and then intruded on Chinese sovereignty. Includes b/w illust/maps, biblio, and index. 1 vol, 424 pgs 2005 LONDON, CAMBRIDGE UNIV
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1-212400 Patton, Roxanne COLONIAL CONFLICTS: The Indian Mutiny Set of 10 Indian Mutiny scenarios designed for The Sword and the Flame, but units can be translated into other rule systems.

* Badli-ki-Serai (June 8, 1857)
* Hindu Rao's House (June 23, 1857)
* Najafgarh (August 25, 1857)
* Delhi: Kashmiri Gate (September 14, 1857)
* Agra (October 10, 1857)
* Chinhut (June 30, 1857)
* Fatehpur (July 12, 1857)
* Aong and Pandu Nadi Bridge (July 15, 1857)
* Aherwa (July 16, 1857)
* First Battle of Cawnpore (July 16, 1857)

Each scenario includes background, scenario-specific rules, Historical Overview, Victory Conditions, color map, OOBs, and Quick Reference Chart. Also includes historical overview of campaign and all 10 battles, uniform painting guides, and rule changes and additions for TSATF. Color photos throughout. 1 vol, 64 pgs 2016 US, OMM PUBLISHING
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2-212400 Patton, Roxanne COLONIAL CONFLICTS: The Indian Mutiny for The Men Who Would Be Kings Set of 10 Indian Mutiny scenarios designed for Osprey rules set The Men Who Would Be Kings, but units can be translated into other rule systems.

* Badli-ki-Serai (June 8, 1857)
* Hindu Rao's House (June 23, 1857)
* Najafgarh (August 25, 1857)
* Delhi: Kashmiri Gate (September 14, 1857)
* Agra (October 10, 1857)
* Chinhut (June 30, 1857)
* Fatehpur (July 12, 1857)
* Aong and Pandu Nadi Bridge (July 15, 1857)
* Aherwa (July 16, 1857)
* First Battle of Cawnpore (July 16, 1857)

Each scenario includes background, scenario-specific rules, Historical Overview, Victory Conditions, color map, OOBs, and Quick Reference Chart. Also includes historical overview of campaign and all 10 battles, uniform painting guides, and rule changes and additions for TSATF. Color photos throughout. 1 vol, 64 pgs 2019 US, OMM PUBLISHING
NEW-softcover ......$24.00 rct

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1-193970 Peers, Chris AFRICAN WARS, THE Peers provides a graphic account of several of the key campaigns fought between European powers and the native peoples of tropical and sub-tropical Africa in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His pioneering and authoritative study describes in vivid detail the organization and training of African warriors, their weapons, their fighting methods and traditions, and their tactics. He concentrates on the campaigns mounted by the most successful African armies as they struggled to defend themselves against the European scramble for Africa. Resistance was inconsistent, but some warlike peoples fought long and hard. For example, the Zulu victory over the British at Isandhlwana is the best known -- but by no means the only occasion -- when the Africans humiliated the colonial invaders.

This book gives us an insight into the theories of African warfare Chris put into his rule book 'Death in the Dark Continent.' 1 vol, 0 pgs 2010 UK, PEN & SWORD BOOKS
NEW-dj ......$40.00 with a discount of 15%

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1-196030 Peers, Chris CENTRAL AFRICA: Tribal and Colonial Armies in the Congo, Gabon, Rwanda, Burundi, Northern Rhodesia and Nyasaland, 1800 to 1900 Oversized at 8.25x12 inches. This is the second volume in Foundry's projected series describing the armies of the era of exploration in sub-Saharan Africa. Following a similar format to its predecessor, it covers the area now largely occupied by the countries of Gabon, the Republic of Congo (Brazzaville), the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, Zambia, and Malawi.

This was the archetypal 'Darkest Africa' of 19th century exploration, and many of its indigenous inhabitants lived at the time in remote regions. Consequently most of what we know about these peoples comes from the fleeting impressions of such European travelers as encountered them - and all too often their experiences were limited to a flight of arrows from an unseen enemy concealed in the forest. This book therefore sets out to put such confrontations into context, and to describe the organization, tactics, costumes, and weapons of the protagonists in this unique theater of conflict. Chris Peers' authoritative text is accompanied by photographs, maps, and 120 drawings of warriors, troop types, and flags. 1 vol, 200 pgs 2014 UK, FOUNDRY
NEW-hardcover ......$98.00 with a discount of 15%

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2-226520 Peers, Chris RORKE'S DRIFT AND ISANDLWANA: 22nd January 1879: Minute by Minute In the morning on 22 January 1879, 20,000 Zulus overwhelmed the British invading force at Isandlwana in one of the greatest disasters ever to befall a British army. Includes 16 pages of color plates.

Later the same day, a Zulu force of around 3,000 warriors turned their attention to a small outpost at Rorke's Drift defended by around 150 British and Imperial troops. The British victory that ensued -- against remarkable odds -- would go down as one of the most heroic actions of all time.

Exposes many of the Victorian myths to reveal great acts of bravery as well as cases of cowardice and incompetence. A brief analysis of the aftermath of the battle and notes on the later careers of the key participants completes this expose of this legendary encounter. 1 vol, 224 pgs 2021 UK, GREENHILL BOOKS
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1-190250 Pemble, John BRITAIN'S GURKHA WAR:Invasion of Nepal 1814-1816 The remarkable fighting abilities of the Nepalese contrasted against the most incredible British ineptitude. Pemble's account is a comprehensive history of the conflict. B/w illust, biblio, index 1 vol, 400 pgs 2009 UK, FRONTLINE BOOKS
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1-12020 Ransford, Oliver BATTLE FOR MAJUBA HILL, THE: The First Boer War The defeat of General Colley by the Boers was an outstanding victory for the Boers. This is a first-rate account of the campaign and battle. Includes an index. 1 vol, 154 pgs 1968 NY, THOMAS Y. CROMWELL CO
GOOD-dj ......$20.00 with a discount of 50%

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1-213070 Simmer, Mark PATHAN RISING: Jihad on the North West Frontier of India 1897-1898 The story of the large-scale tribal unrest that erupted along the North West Frontier of India in the late 1890s -- a short but sharp period of violence that was initiated by the Pathan tribesmen against the British. Although the exact causes of the unrest remain unclear, it was likely the result of tribal resentment towards the establishment of the Durand Line and British 'forward policy', during the last echoes of the 'Great Game' that led the proud tribesmen to take up arms on an unprecedented scale.

This resentment was brought to boiling point by a number of fanatical religious leaders, such as the Mad Fakir and the Hadda Mullah, who visited the various Pathan tribes calling for jihad. By the time the revolts ended, 11 Victoria Crosses would be awarded to British troops, which hints at the ferocity and level of bitterness of the fighting. Indeed, although not eligible for the VC in 1897, many Indian soldiers would also receive high-level decorations in recognition of their bravery. It would be one of the greatest challenges to British authority in Asia during the Victorian era. 1 vol, 272 pgs 2016 UK, PEN & SWORD
NEW-dj, available mid January 2017 ......$40.00 with a discount of 15%

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1-215030 Simner, Mark CHITRAL 1895: An Episode of the Great Game In 1895, a small Indian Army garrison, commanded by Surgeon-Major Sir George Scott Robertson and Captain Charles Vere Ferrers Townshend, was besieged by a joint Chitrali and Pathan army at the fort of Chitral.

Despite the odds being heavily stacked against them, Robertson's beleaguered little garrison held out for 48 days until a relief expedition was able to fight its way through to the rescue. The siege and subsequent relief is a story of valor and sheer determination in the face of a stubborn adversary and extreme weather conditions, all played out on the often-mountainous terrain of the northwestern border of British India.

Robertson described events in Chitral as a 'minor siege', but the siege and subsequent relief should be viewed as an important episode in Britain's 'Great Game' with Russia, which would have serious consequences for the British several years later. Indeed, the retention of Chitral by the Indian Government would be a contributing factor to the mass uprisings along the northwest Frontier of India during late 1897. In reality, it was anything but a minor siege. 1 vol, 224 pgs 2017 UK, FONTHILL MEDIA
NEW-dj, available early September 2017 ......$35.00 with a discount of 15%

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1-208340 Singh, Amarpal THE FIRST ANGLO-SIKH WAR During the 18th and early years of the 19th century, the red tide of British expansion had covered almost the entire Indian subcontinent, stretching to the borders of the Punjab. There the great Sikh ruler Ranjit Singh had developed his military forces to thwart any British advance into his kingdom north of the River Sutlej.

Yet on the death of Ranjit Singh, unworthy successors and disparate forces fought over his legacy while the British East India Company seized on the opportunity and prepared for battle. In the winter of 1845, the First Anglo-Sikh War broke out. From the start, the two-month campaign was marred by Victorian arrogance and bluster on the British side and personal ambition, intrigue and treason in the Sikh camp. Five keenly fought contests ensued, including the great battle of Ferozeshah where the British force found itself caught between two powerful Sikh armies and came close to destruction. Declining to retreat, Sir Hugh Gough, the British Commander-in-Chief, told his second in command: 'My mind is made up. If we must perish, it is better that our bones should bleach honorably at Ferozeshah than rot at Ferozepore: but they shall do neither the one nor the other.' The fate of the British Empire in India would be decided that day.

Amarpal Singh writes a warts-and-all tale of a conflict characterized by treachery, tragedy and incredible bravery on both sides. In an innovative approach to history writing, the narrative of the campaign is accompanied by battlefield guides that draw on eyewitness accounts and invite the reader to take a tour of the battlefields, either physically or virtually. Fully illustrated with period drawings, modern-day photographs, and new maps. 1 vol, 0 pgs 2015 UK, PEN & SWORD
NEW-softcover, available late April 2015 ......$16.00 with a discount of 15%

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1-190260 Skeen, Andrew LESSONS IN IMPERIAL RULE A delightful collection of guidelines for British troops based in India. The lessons included cover establishing new camps, securing perimeters, moving platoons, setting up watching posts etc. 1 vol, 208 pgs 2009 UK, FRONTLINE BOOKS
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1-226460 Snape, David THE RESCUE THEY CALLED A RAID: The Jameson Raid 1895-96 125 years ago, Leander Starr Jameson sought to expand the British Empire in South Africa with the backing of a mere 500 men. He was part of a conspiracy of entrepreneurs, gold magnates, and politicians, each of whom had different motives for supporting and encouraging his actions. His 'raid' failed miserably. It almost brought down the British Government, destroyed the career of one of the most eminent South African Statesmen, nearly caused a war with the South African Republic, and exposed Britain to international ridicule. Includes 43 b/w illustrations, 1 color plate, and 4 b/w maps.

Examines the motives for Jameson's actions, the reasons for the raid's failure, and its consequences for those involved. Analyzes the extent of the involvement of the British Colonial Office and its Secretary of State, Joseph Chamberlain, Cecil Rhodes, Paul Kruger, and Jameson and offers a detailed account of the evidence given at two Inquiries by many witnesses. Reactions in the British Parliament and the fate of the raiders are covered and how this raid affected the futures of the key players. 1 vol, 180 pgs 2021 UK, HELION AND COMPANY
NEW-softcover ......$40.00 with a discount of 15% rct

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2-194840 Snook, Lt Col Mike BEYOND THE REACH OF EMPIRE: Wolseley's Failed Campaign to Save Gordon and Khartoum n the early 1880s the Mahdi unleashed a spectacularly successful jihadist uprising against Egyptian colonial rule in the Sudan. Early in 1884 Cairo bowed to British pressure to withdraw. Beyond the Reach of Empire describes how Major General Charles Gordon was dispatched to evacuate Khartoum and turn the Sudan over to self-rule. It goes on to explain how and why the mission backfired, and then homes in on Sir Garnet Wolseley's planning and execution of the long-delayed Gordon Relief Expedition which arrived, according to popular myth, only two days after the city had fallen and Gordon had been killed.

Colonel Mike Snook's narrative is characterized by scrupulous attention to detail, an instinctive grasp of the period, and an intimate understanding of its setting. The author argues compellingly that the Khartoum campaign was mismanaged from the outset. The outcome is the exoneration of Colonel Sir Charles Wilson, the man cast in the role of scapegoat, and an indictment of Wolseley's generalship over the course of the last and most deeply flawed campaign of his career. 1 vol, 608 pgs 2012
NEW-pb edition, available late November 2022 ......$35.00 with a discount of 15% rct

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1-192850 Snook, Lt Col Mike with color plates by Michael Perry GO STRONG INTO THE DESERT: The Mahdist Uprising in Sudan 1881-85 A Military History and Uniform Guide On 11 August 1881, two companies of Egyptian infantry landed on an island in the White Nile to arrest a remarkable imam by the name of Muhammad Ahmad ibn al-Saiyid 'Abd Allah, who called himself the Mahdi. Within the hour most of the soldiers concerned were dead - routed by a poorly armed and numerically inferior band of disciples. The subsequent dramatic rise of the Mahdist movement, culminating in the siege of the Sudanese capital, the death of General Gordon, and a serious fundamentalist threat to Egypt, is told in Go Strong into the Desert, an original and authoritative military history of events in Kordofan, Khartoum and the Red Sea Littoral between 1881 and 1885.

Expert Mike Snook has recently returned from serving in the Sudan and has once again approached the old interpretations of Victorian military history with a fresh eye, an inquiring mind, and his reader's enjoyment at heart. Go Strong into the Desert focuses in close detail on the combat waged across the Sudan and is characterized by absorbing blow-by-blow narratives of what actually happened during such dramatic actions as:

The Siege of El Obeid and the massacre at Sheikan of Hicks Pasha's Kordofan expedition.
The defeat of Valentine Baker Pasha's gendarmerie at El Teb.
Sir Gerald Graham's costly victories over Osman Digna at El Teb and Tamai.
The desperate fights of Sir Herbert Stewart's Desert Column at Abu Klea and Abu Kru.
The epic of General Gordon's stand at Khartoum.
Sir Charles Wilson's river dash and the rescue mission mounted by Beresford RN.
The Battles of Hashin, Tofrek and Giniss.

In addition the book's battle narratives are supported by analysis, copious illustrations, contemporary sketches, maps, detailed orders of battle, a comprehensive guide to the dress and equipment of the participants on both sides, modern photography of the virtually unchanged battlefields, and more than 30 full-color uniform plates by renowned sculptor, artist and designer Michael Perry.
1 vol, 216 pgs 2010 UK, Perry Miniatures
NEW-softcover, back in print ......$48.00

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1-211051 Snook, Lt Col Mike with color plates by Michael Perry CAPE WARRIORS VOLUME 1: Frontier Warfare & Fighting Men in Colonial South Africa Examines in depth the fighting men and type of warfare conducted during the 6th, 7th, and 8th Cape Frontier Wars, the Boer-Ndebele War of 1836-7, the Boer Andash; Zulu War of 1838-40; the Anglo-Boer confrontations in the 1840s; and the one-day Anglo-Basotho war of 1852. Heavily illustrated with contemporary images and 41 color 'uniform' plates by ourselves. 1 vol, 216 pgs 2016 UK, PERRY MINIATURES
NEW-pb ......$48.00

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1-211052 Snook, Lt Col Mike with color plates by Michael Perry CAPE WARRIORS VOLUME II: British Battles in Colonial South Africa The second volume concentrates on the combat and tactical conduct of operations for the period and looks at the most notable general actions. These are accompanied by contemporary artwork, his own annotated battlefield photography and maps. Color and black and white images throughout. 1 vol, 220 pgs 2016 UK, PERRY MINIATURES
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1-83370 Snook, Lt. Colonel Mike LIKE WOLVES ON THE FOLD:Defense of Rorke's Drift The author provides a fresh interpretation of the events at Rorke's Drift; color & b/w illust/maps, appendices, biblio, index. 1 vol, 302 pgs 2006 UK, GREENHILL BOOKS
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1-195130 Snook, Mike (Col) HOW CAN MAN DIE BETTER: The Secrets of Isandlwana Revealed Wednesday January 22, 1879 was one of the most dramatic days in the long and distinguished history of the British Army. At noon a massive Zulu host attacked the 24th Regiment in its encampment at the foot of the mountain of Isandlwana, a distinctive feature that bore an eerie resemblance to the Sphinx badge of the outnumbered redcoats. Disaster ensued. Later that afternoon, the victorious Zulus would strike the tiny British garrison at Rorke's Drift.

How Can Man Die Better is a unique analysis of Isandlwana - of the weapons, tactics, ground, and the intriguing characters who made the key military decisions. Because the fatal loss was so high on the British side, there is still much that is unknown about the battle. This is a work of unparalleled depth, which eschews the commonly held perception that the British collapse was sudden and that the 24th Regiment was quickly overwhelmed. Rather, there was a protracted and heroic defense against a determined and equally heroic foe.

6x9.5-inches, 32 pages of illustrations, and 7 maps. 1 vol, 288 pgs 2011 UK, FRONTLINE
NEW-pb ......$33.00 with a discount of 15%

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1-223210 Summerfield, Stepehen and Trendall, Simon ARMSTRONG RIFLES BREECH LOADING FIELD ARTILLERY AND WAGONS: ROYAL CARRIAGE DEPARTMENT PLANS, 1860-1880 The Royal Carriage Department plates were the working plans produced to accompany the various editions of the Treatise of Military Carriages. While the treatises can be found in various editions and reprints, only a few RCD plates have previously been made available even to researchers. Fortunately, an almost complete set of plates has been found and preserved in the private reference collection of Simon Trendall. In addition, using the extensive specialist knowledge of Dr.Stephen Summerfield, Editor of the Smoothbore Ordnance Journal, we have been able to reproduce the plates supported by text from contemporary Treatise of Military Carriages to create this invaluable reference for the historian, model maker and restorer of ordnance of this period.

35 double page Royal Carriage Department plates, 53 plans, 39 tables 1 vol, 142 pgs 2020 UK, KEN TROTMAN
NEW-hardback ......$65.00 rct

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1-223212 Summerfield, Stepehen and Trendall, Simon ARMSTRONG HEAVY RIFLED BREECH LOADING GARRISON, NAVAL AND SIEGE ARTILLERY: Royal Carriage Department Plans 1860-80 Volume 2 of this series is illustrated throughout with technical plans and Royal Carriage Department color plates. The Royal Carriage Department plates were the working plans produced to accompany the various editions of the Treatise of Military Carriages. While the treatises can be found in various editions and reprints, only a few RCD plates have previously been made available even to researchers. Fortunately, an almost complete set of plates has been found and preserved in the private reference collection of Simon Trendall. In addition, using the extensive specialist knowledge of Dr. Stephen Summerfield, Editor of the Smoothbore Ordnance Journal, we have been able to reproduce the plates supported by text from contemporary Treatise of Military Carriages to create this invaluable reference for the historian, model maker and restorer of ordnance of this period. 1 vol, 160 pgs 2022 UK, KEN TROTMAN
NEW-pb, available late November 2022 ......$65.00 rct

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1-242780 Thornton, Neil WITNESSES AT ISANDLWANA Puts together first-hand accounts of the British defeat against the Zulu that have been scattered in archives, museums, and private collections around the world. British soldiers, those from the colonial forces, civilians, and those Zulu warriors who attacked the camp all left detailed descriptions of the battle. Provides a better understanding of the battle and what those involved witnessed on that monumental day in both British and Zulu history. Contains 40 black and white photographs and 20 maps. 1 vol, 528 pgs 2024 US, FONTHILL MEDIA
NEW-dj, available mid March 2024 ......$45.00 with a discount of 15% rct

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1-213090 Thorton, Neil RORKE'S DRIFT: A New Perspective The Battle of Rorke's Drift is established in history as one of Britain's most incredible actions where approximately 155 defenders held off a Zulu force of over 4,000 warriors, in a savage, bloody conflict with no quarter given by either side. The battle led to a display of incredible fortitude, courage and tenacity resulting in mutual respect between British red coat and Zulu warrior. Illustrated with previously unpublished artwork -- 49 illustrations (21 in color). The actions of each of the 11 Victoria Cross recipients are looked at in detail, together with those men who were awarded the DCM. 1 vol, 208 pgs 2016 UK, FONTHILL MEDIA
NEW-dj, available mid January 2017 ......$35.00 with a discount of 15%

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1-84015 Tilson, Tim THE SIKH WARS 1823-1849: Colonist Campaigns The Sikh Wars features 10 action packed scenarios covering the fighting in the Punjab and Afghanistan. Each scenario includes a campaign History, detailed uniform information, bibliography, campaign rules, and a campaign map. The scenarios are organized to be played with The Sword and the Flame, but can be easily adapted to any rule set.

Naushera, March 14, 1823 The Afghans attempt to retake Peshawar
Jamrud, April 30, 1837 Last fight of the 'Murat of the Sikh Army'
Mudki, December 18, 1845 The Sikhs' surprise attack on the British Army
Ferozeshah, December 21, 1845 The attack of General Gilbert's Division
Cornes' Convoy, January 21, 1846 Quartermaster Cornes and 30 men vs. 1,000 Sikhs
Aliwal, January 28, 1846 General Harry Smith's 'Perfect Battle'
Sobraon, February 10, 1846 End of the Akalis (the Sikh Holy Warriors)
Kineyree, June 18, 1848 'No Englishman can be beaten on the 18th of June' Lt. Herbert Edwardes. C-in-C, Allied Army of Pashtuns, Daudputras and Sikhs
Sudoosam, July 1, 1848 The rebel Mulraj's last hope for victory
Multan, January 2, 1849 Into the breach with 1st Bombay Fusiliers a.k.a. 'the Bombay Toughs' 1 vol, 64 pgs 2011 FAIRFAX, J&D PUBLICATIONS
NEW-softcover ......$25.00

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1-84016 Tilson, Tim THE GORDON CAMPAIGN: Colonial Campaign Scenarios This book features 10 action-packed scenarios from 1882-1889 covering before, during, and after the 1st Anglo Sudanese War. It features the following battles:

1. Om Waragut, November 4, 1882 An Austrian Soldier's Finest Hour
2. El Teb, February 29, 1884 First Blood
3. Tamai, March 13, 1884 Breaking Up Osman Digna
4. Abu Klea, January 17, 1885 Breaking the British Square
5. Kirbekan, February 10, 1885 The River Column Triumphant
6. Hashin, March 20,1885 Breaking up Osman Digna Again
7. Tofrik, March 22, 1885 The Mahdists Come for Lunch
8. Ginnis, December 30, 1885 The Last Wearing of the Scarlet Coat
9. Handub, January 17, 1888 Colonel Kitchener is Wounded
10. Toski, August 3, 1889 The Rebirth of the Egyptian Army

Organized to be played with The Sword and the Flame, they can be adopted to any rule set. Also includes a 14-page campaign history along with information on unit organizations and uniforms. 1 vol, 64 pgs 2011\6 FAIRFAX, J&D PUBLICATIONS
NEW-pb ......$25.00

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1-212470 Tyguin, Michael SUDAN 1885 The involvement of an Australian colonial military force in Britain's Egyptian campaigns between 1883 and 1885 was very short, extending for only five months overall, including the pre-deployment phase. Consequently its influence on these campaigns was insignificant.

Nevertheless, the involvement in the Sudan in 1885 is part of Australia's military history. This book provides the context for Australia's involvement in the Sudan, and follows operations chronologically. The call in the 1880s for jihad or 'holy war' by Sudanese leaders shows us that some of our current global challenges are not new. Full color throughout, highly illustrated. 1 vol, 200 pgs 2016 AUSTRALIA, BIG SKY PUBLISHING
NEW-pb, available late September 2016 ......$17.00 with a discount of 15%

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1-24380 Vogt, Lt. Colonel Herman EGYPTIAN WAR OF 1882, THE The author, an officer in the German Army, details an excellent account, map pocket. 1 vol, 236 pgs 1992 NASHVILLE, BATTERY PRESS
NEW-dj ......$35.00

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1-194520 Wade, Stephen EMPIRE AND ESPIONAGE: Spies in the Zulu War The book examines the roles of spies, diplomats, and other influential figures in the conflict, including John Dunn -- who fought with the British during the campaign, becoming ruler of part of Zululand after its conquest, and even being presented to Queen Victoria. Diplomats include Sir Theophilus Shepstone, who was responsible for directing native affairs in Natal, and was so respected by the Zulus they called him 'Father.' 1 vol, 256 pgs 2011 UK, PEN & SWORD BOOKS
NEW-dj ......$40.00 with a discount of 15%

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1-209420 Whitburn, Bill BRIGHT EYES OF DANGER: An Account of the Anglo-Sikh Wars 1845-1849 Details the seven battles and one siege of Britain's two wars with the Sikhs. Includes 80 illustrations with eight pages in color and eight pages of color maps.

The first battle was brought on by the demise of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, the machinations of palace officials and rapacity of the Sikh Army. Despite traitors in command, the Sikhs gave the invincible British Army a run for its money. The Battle of Ferozeshah was a closer run thing than Waterloo as the British Indian Empire stood at the brink of disaster.

At the close of the first war, many expected a British annexation of the Punjab. Yet Governor-General Sir Henry Hardinge, mindful of British public opinion and deeming the Sikh real estate too large and expensive to hold, opted instead for a quasi-independent Sikh State. In deference to the parsimonious East India Company Directors in London, he charged the Sikh State war reparations, annexed the most productive province of Jullundar, and sold Kashmir to the 'biggest scoundrel in India' for 75,000 pounds.

The second war erupted with a rebellion at Multan and the British Army advanced to battle with a new Governor-General and the same Commander-in-Chief, Lord Gough, whose catalogue of tactics did not extend beyond the awesome charge of British bayonets. This was not enough at the bloody onslaught of Chillianwala, where both sides fought to a stand still. At Gujerat Lord Gough, with a greater number of guns than Wellington had at Waterloo, crushed the Sikhs into submission and the Governor-General, Lord Dalhousie, annexed the Punjab.

Having rocked the British Indian Empire at Ferozeshah, Ranjit Singh's soldiers helped save it during the Great Indian Mutiny, and later in both the World Wars. 1 vol, 0 pgs 2015 UK, PEN & SWORD
NEW-hardcover ......$80.00 with a discount of 15%

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1-45040 Whitehouse, Howard editor WIDOW-MAKING WAR, A:Life & Death of a British Officer The Letters and Diary of Major Warren Wynne, a Royal Engineer, who served & died in the Zulu War of 1879, the letters are to his wife and the diary covers Jan/March 1879, a great first hand account. 1 vol, 160 pgs 1995 UK, PADDY GRIFFITH ASSOC.
NEW-hardcover ......$16.00

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1-13740 Whitehouse, Howard illustrated by Peter Dennis BATTLE IN AFRICA:1879-1914 Second edition is edited by John Curry as part of the History of Wargaming Project series of books.

Battle in Africa is a uniquely vivid analysis of colonial campaigning in the late-Victorian and Edwardian eras. Edited by Paddy Griffith, the author Howard Whitehouse guides the reader systematically through each stage of an African campaign, from the formulation of strategy to the fate of the wounded, and from the collection of supplies to the tactics of guerrilla warfare. He also offers a long-overdue comparative approach, which describes the Belgian, German, and Italian experiences as well as the better-known French and British ... and he gives a rare emphasis to the perceptions of the indigenous African 'enemy'. Illustrated throughout by Peter Dennis - who is himself a keen student of these campaigns - in an appropriately 'period' style.
1 vol, 95 pgs 2021 UK, JOHN CURRY EVENTS
NEW-color softcover ......$20.00 rct

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2-13740 Whitehouse, Howard illustrated by Peter Dennis BATTLE IN AFRICA:1879-1914 8.5x11, many b/w line drawings, tables, charts. Details the expansion of the colonial powers, maps 1 vol, 48 pgs 1987 UK, FIELD BOOKS
NEW-color softcover ......$16.00 rct

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1-211890 Young, John VICTORIA'S HARVEST: The Irish Soldier in the Zulu War of 1879 This book tells the story of some of the Irish men who served as soldiers in Queen Victoria's Army, before, during and after the Zulu War of 1879. Men who fought not necessarily for a queen or a country, but most often for their regiment; a regiment that had seen numerous fellow Irishmen and often preceding family members serve in its ranks. Includes 300 b/w photos, illustrations, and maps.

This book is not about the Zulu War of 1879 per se, enough has already been written on that account. It is the story of some of those Irishmen who volunteered for service in Queen Victoria's Army and found themselves involved in not only the greatest defeat of the British soldier at the hands of a native enemy, but some remarkable victories. 1 vol, 376 pgs 2016 UK, HELION AND COMPANY
NEW-pb, available mid July 2016 ......$60.00 with a discount of 15%

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1-197230 Zorzetto, G UNIFORMS AND INSIGNIA OF ITALIAN COLONIAL TROOPS VOL.1: ERITREA AND SOMALIA, 1885-1934 283 pictures, mostly unreleased, 92 figures in color, 160 color drawings of decorations, badges and flags.

Important work dedicated to the uniforms of the native troops of the Italian army during the colonial campaigns. Accompanied by detailed color plates and a large quantity of photographs (mostly unpublished) presents and describes the uniforms and insignia of departments, but is also the clothing, regular or not, all the local staff employed by the Italian Government.

Through careful archival research are detailed the events of individual departments or bodies, from the Battalions Squadrons, Companies from the Autonomous Battery of Artillery, from services to smaller units in order to provide for each of them a comprehensive historical framework, useful the collector as to the researcher. 1 vol, 312 pgs 2012 ITALY
NEW-hardcover, [Italian text] ......$115.00

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