Cornwall's Military Heritage

Cornwall in England's far south-west is surrounded by sea on three sides and has a rich military history that stretches back through centuries. Evidence of this military heritage can be seen throughout the county, with numerous buildings and other structures still standing today. Cornwall was home to two uprisings in 1497, followed by the Prayer Book Rebellion in 1549 and the Spanish raiding of 1595. In the English Civil War, Cornwall was a Royalist stronghold in the predominantly Parliamentarian South West, and Pendennis Castle was besieged alongside the strategic Isles of Scilly. Author Andrew Powell-Thomas explores the conflicts surrounding an array of historic monuments, including castles, forts, airfields, and military bases, noting how the Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry and its antecedents fought through two world wars to maintain the survival of this most remarkable county.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 15 January 2022
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

The county of Cornwall, located in the far south-west of England, is a remarkable place with a rich and fascinating history. Surrounded by the sea on three sides, it has managed to resist both Roman and Anglo-Saxon invaders, maintaining its Celtic independence and remaining separate from the rest of England into the Middle Ages. Cornwall's military heritage is a testament to its resilience and strength, and evidence of this can be seen throughout the county in the numerous buildings and structures that still stand today.

Cornwall's military history spans centuries, with numerous battles and conflicts taking place on its soil. From the Roman occupation to the Anglo-Saxon invasions, Cornwall has been a focal point of military activity. The county was home to two significant uprisings in 1497, followed by the Prayer Book Rebellion in 1549 and the Spanish raiding of 1595. During the English Civil War, Cornwall was a Royalist stronghold in the predominantly Parliamentarian South West. Pendennis Castle, located on the strategic Isles of Scilly, was besieged alongside the strategic Isles of Scilly, contested by both sides.

Author Andrew Powell-Thomas has written extensively about the conflicts surrounding an array of historic monuments, including castles, forts, airfields, and military bases. In his book, "Cornwall's Military Heritage," he explores how the Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry and its antecedents fought through two world wars to maintain the survival of this most remarkable county.

The Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry is one of the oldest infantry regiments in the British Army, with a rich history dating back to 1755. The regiment has served in numerous conflicts, including the American Revolutionary War, the Napoleonic Wars, and both world wars. During the Second World War, the regiment played a crucial role in the Battle of Britain, defending the skies over Britain against German air raids.

The regiment's commitment to service and bravery has earned it numerous accolades and decorations, including the Victoria Cross, the highest award for gallantry in the face of the enemy. The regiment has also been honored with the Freedom of the City of London and the Freedom of the Borough of St. Ives.

In addition to its military history, Cornwall has a rich cultural heritage that includes traditional music, dance, and literature. The county is home to numerous festivals and events, including the Cornish Festival, the St. Ives Festival, and the Newquay Carnival. Cornwall is also known for its stunning coastline, with its beaches, cliffs, and coves attracting visitors from all over the world.

In conclusion, the county of Cornwall is a place with a rich and fascinating history, including a strong military heritage. From the Roman occupation to the Anglo-Saxon invasions, Cornwall has been a focal point of military activity. The Duke of Cornwall's Light Infantry is one of the oldest infantry regiments in the British Army, with a rich history of service and bravery. Cornwall's cultural heritage is also rich and diverse, with traditional music, dance, and literature being celebrated throughout the county. Whether you are interested in military history, culture, or the stunning coastline, Cornwall is a place that has something for everyone.

Weight: 300g
Dimension: 165 x 303 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781445695013