THE FIRST BRITISH ARMY 1624-1628: The Army of the Duke Of Buckingham -- Revised Edition

1-912114

The army raised by Charles I in 1625 for his war against Spain -- and subsequently, with France -- is most famous for its failure, but it is one of the best-documented armies of the early 17th century. First half of the book covers the origins and lives of the officers and men serving in the army of Charles I as well as the women who accompanied them. Discusses how men from England, Scotland, and Ireland were recruited, clothed, fed, given medical care, and taught tactics.

Second half of the book covers expeditions to Cadiz, the Isle de Rhe, and the siege of La Rochelle and their effect on England that feared a Spanish (and later a French) invasion. Also covered are the campaigns of Count Ernest von Mansfeldt and Sir Charles Morgan and battles of Breda, Dessau Bridge, and against the forces of the Holy Roman Empire. The final chapter examines disbandment of the army and fates of soldiers and their widows. Includes 30 b/w illustrations, maps, and four pages of color plates.