THE DUKE OF YORK'S FLANDERS CAMPAIGN: Fighting the French Revolution 1793-1795

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In the wake of the French revolution, The armies of the First Coalition gathered round France's borders, the largest of which was assembled in Flanders. Composed of Anglo-Hanoverian, Dutch, Hessian, Prussian, and Imperial Austrian troops, its aim was to invade France and restore the nobility to what was considered their rightful place. Opposing them was the French Armee du Nord.

In command of the Anglo-Hanoverian contingent was the son of George III, the Duke of York. The campaign was a disaster for the Coalition forces, particularly during the severe winter of 1794/5 when the troops were forced into a terrible and humiliating retreat. Britain's reputation and that of its military leaders was severely diminished, with the forces of the Revolution sweeping all before them on a tide of populism.