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Corunna 1809: Sir John Moore's Fighting Retreat – A Triumph of Military Skill and Leadership

William Powell

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Corunna 1809: Sir John Moore's Fighting Retreat Campaign 83 is a captivating historical account that delves into the extraordinary military campaign led by the brilliant British general, Sir John Moore. The book chronicles the daring retreat of Moore's army in the face of overwhelming odds, demonstrating the indomitable spirit and tactical prowess that characterized British military might during the Napoleonic Wars.

The Strategic Context

In 1808, as Napoleon's armies swept across Europe, Sir John Moore was dispatched to the Iberian Peninsula with a British force of 30,000 men. His mission was to support the Portuguese resistance against the French occupation. However, Napoleon, with his characteristic speed and audacity, turned his attention to the Peninsula, leading a massive army to crush the British and Portuguese forces.

Corunna 1809: Sir John Moore s Fighting Retreat (Campaign 83)

Corunna 1809: Sir John Moore’s Fighting Retreat (Campaign Book 83)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	69133 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	96 pages

The Retreat Begins

Faced with an enemy vastly superior in numbers and firepower, Moore made the difficult decision to retreat. The British army, laden with supplies and baggage, began a arduous and perilous journey through the rugged terrain of northern Spain. Moore's objective was to reach the port of Corunna, where he planned to evacuate his troops.

Map Of Sir John Moore's Fighting Retreat From Sahagun To Corunna Corunna 1809: Sir John Moore S Fighting Retreat (Campaign 83)

A Series of Harassing Attacks

The retreat was not without its challenges. The French army, led by the relentless Marshal Soult, pursued the British relentlessly, launching a series of harassing attacks along the way. Despite these attacks, Moore's army maintained its discipline and cohesion, executing a series of skillful rearguard actions to hold off the French.

The Battle of Benavente

One of the most significant battles of the retreat was the Battle of Benavente, fought on December 29, 1808. The French army attacked with overwhelming force, but Moore's troops, inspired by their general's leadership, fought back with determination. The battle ended in a draw, but it gave Moore valuable time to continue his retreat.

The Arrival at Corunna

After weeks of grueling marching and fighting, the British army finally reached Corunna on January 11, 1809. The port was heavily fortified, and Moore hoped to evacuate his troops without further conflict. However, Soult's army arrived just hours later, and the British found themselves trapped.

The Battle of Corunna

On January 16, 1809, the French launched a full-scale attack on the British positions outside Corunna. The battle was fiercely contested, with both sides fighting with great determination. In the midst of the fighting, Sir John Moore was fatally wounded by a cannonball. Despite losing their commander, the British troops held their ground, repelling the French attacks and securing their evacuation.

Moore's Legacy

Sir John Moore's Fighting Retreat at Corunna was a remarkable achievement, demonstrating the British army's ability to overcome adversity and fight with honor and determination. Moore's leadership and tactical brilliance inspired his troops and earned him a place among the greatest military commanders in British history.

Corunna 1809: Sir John Moore's Fighting Retreat Campaign 83 is an epic tale of courage, sacrifice, and military genius. It is a must-read for anyone interested in military history, leadership, and the enduring spirit of the British people.

Corunna 1809: Sir John Moore’s Fighting Retreat (Campaign Book 83)

4.8 out of 5