History of the War in the Peninsula and in the South of France - Volume 2

Published between 1828 and 1840, Napier's History of the War in the Peninsula was a tremendously influential, if controversial, work. Napier had been actively involved in the campaigns, turning to history in peacetime, in part to refute Southey's account of Sir John Moore. The first volume had a mixed reception, getting both high praise and bitter criticism from participants in the wars. He published several works rebutting his critics while producing the later volumes. Because of his obvious lack of impartiality, modern military historians treat the work with caution, but it remains widely read in the many editions and abridgements subsequently produced. Volume 2 covers the period from the beginning of 1809 to the British retreat back to Portugal after the Battle of Talavera in July. Significant events include the departure of Napoleon to France, and Wellesley's return to Portugal as commander of the Anglo-Portuguese forces.

This classic history of the Peninsular War was first published by a participant, Lieutenant-Colonel Napier, between 1828 and 1840.

Book V: 1. Slight effect produced in England by the result of the campaign; 2. Operations in Aragon; 3. System of terror; 4. Operations in Catalonia; 5. Tumult in Tarragona; Book VI: 1. Transactions in Portugal; 2. French retire from Merida; 3. Weakness of the British Army in Portugal; Book VII: 1. Coruna and Ferrol surrender to Soult; 2. Soult enters Portugal; 3. Operations of the first and fourth corps; 4. The bishop of Oporto flies to Lisbon; Book VIII: 1. Anarchy in Portugal; 2. Campaign on the Douro; 3. Romana surprises Villa Franca; 4. State of the British army; Book IX: 1. Campaign of Talavera; 2. Cuesta passes the Alberche; 3. The king goes to Illescas with the fourth corps and reserve; 4. Venegas advances to Aranjues; 5. General observations on the campaign; Appendix.