The Letters of Private Wheeler: An eyewitness in action at the Battle of Waterloo

John Keegan,DAILY TELEGRAPH, states that a later age he would have become a successful war correspondent. One of military history's great originals, John Keegan, wrote these letters, in the form of a frank and amusing diary, were written by a private in Wellington's army who fought throughout the Napoleonic Wars.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 28 July 2022
Publisher: Orion Publishing Co

In a later age, he would have emerged as a renowned war correspondent, capturing the essence of battles and the human experience. Unfortunately, we have no more firsthand accounts of the Peninsular War from a participant who witnessed all its pivotal moments. However, the vivid images that flow from his pen paint a captivating picture of people, landscapes, and events. John Keegan, in his review of Private Wheeler's letters, hailed him as one of military history's great originals.

These letters, presented in the form of a frank and amusing diary, were penned by a private in Wellington's army who actively participated in the Napoleonic Wars. Private Wheeler's record spans the Peninsular Campaign, encompassing his service during the coronation of Louis XVIII (whom he referred to as an old bloated poltroon) and his subsequent deployment to Corfu.

Most notably, Wheeler's account of the historic Battle of Waterloo, written before the echoes of battle had subsided, showcases him as a master of lively anecdotes and mischievous characterizations. Through his letters, we gain a unique perspective into the lives of ordinary soldiers, their experiences, and the broader context of the Napoleonic Wars.

Weight: 258g
Dimension: 131 x 196 x 24 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474626385