Fighting Techniques of the Colonial Age

"Fighting Techniques of the Colonial Era offers a detailed analysis of the tactics, techniques, and weapons of colonial warfare from the American War of Independence through to the early twentieth century. From the American republican raid on Paulus Hook (1779) through to the slaughter at Spion Kop (1900), the book covers colonial engagements from four continents." "In these wars the imperial powers and foreign occupiers did not always have it their own way, as many of the featured battles show. In the first chapter, the book explore infantry-dominated battles, such as the defeat of regular British forces at Isandlwana (1879) and Spion Kop (1900), as well as the victory of European-led armies at Isly (1844) and Kandahar (1880). This chapter investigates the contrasting tactics of the Zulus, Boers, and North African Moors, comparing their approach to regular European infantry. The second chapter looks at the role of cavalry at the battles of Paulus Hook (1779), Ayacucho (1824), Little Big Horn (1876), and Omdurman (1898), examining how increased mobility and unconventional tactics could make all the difference in difficult terrain. The third chapter explores the role of generalship, demonstrating how poor decision-making could lead to disastrous results at Kabul (1842) and Adowa (1896). The fourth chapter examines the siege warfare of the era through battles at Yorktown (1781), the Alamo (1836), Delhi (1857), and Puebla (1863). The final chapter appraises the crucial role played by naval units in colonial wars, with examinations of the republican attack on Valdivia (1820), the Chinese defeat at Fatshan Creek (1857), and the use of overwhelming firepower by the British Royal Navy at Alexandria (1882)." "Using specially-commissioned color and black-and-white artworks to illustrate the battles, equipment, and tactics of the period, Fighting Techniques of the Colonial Era examines contrasting approaches to warfare where mismatched technologies still sometimes led to unexpected outcomes. The book is an essential companion for anyone interested in colonial warfare." --Book Jacket.