Sir Garnet Wolseley: Soldier of Empire

Field Marshal Lord Wolseley was a prominent Victorian military leader who served the British empire in various locations, including Burma, India, China, the Crimea, Canada, Asante, Egypt, South Africa, and the Sudan. Stephen Mannings' timely and important military biography examines Wolseley's campaigns, performance as a commander, and efforts as an army reformer, providing a fresh look at the man and his achievements.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2023
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

Field Marshal Lord Wolseley was a prominent Victorian figure, standing out among a select few military leaders from the late 19th century whose reputation far exceeds their age. His remarkable service to the British Empire spanned various regions, including Burma, India, China, the Crimea, Canada, Asante, Egypt, South Africa, and the Sudan. Wolseley's exceptional career saw him excel in various roles, from regimental soldier to staff officer, army commander, and reformer, ultimately culminating in his appointment as Commander-in-Chief. However, it has been a generation since there has been significant scholarly work dedicated to examining Wolseley's life and achievements, and a thorough reassessment of his legacy is long overdue.

That is why Stephen Mannings insightful military biography, which contextualizes Wolseley within the historical framework of his era and aims to debunk the legends that grew during his lifetime, is both timely and crucial. The book delves into each of Wolseley's campaigns with vivid detail, providing graphic descriptions of the major battles in which he participated, whether as an officer or a general. Mannings' critical assessment of Wolseley's performance as a commander, from his remarkable success during the expedition against the Asante to his unsuccessful rescue of Gordon from Khartoum, aims to determine whether Wolseley truly deserves the brilliant reputation he has earned. Additionally, the book explores Wolseley's efforts as an army reformer, particularly examining whether he could have done more to prepare Britain for the war against the Boers.

Stephen Mannings' incisive account of Wolseley's career is a captivating read for anyone with an interest in the British army during the 19th century, colonial warfare, and the remarkable exploits of one of Queen Victoria's most admired generals. The book offers a fresh perspective on Wolseley's life and achievements, challenging prevailing narratives and shedding light on his complex and multifaceted character. It is a valuable contribution to the field of military history and will undoubtedly inspire further research and discussion about this influential figure.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399072441