Whilst most people interested in the Peninsular War have read William Napier’s ‘History of the Peninsular War’, many will not realise the controversy it caused when it was originally published between 1828 and 1840. His interpretation of events and judgement of officers involved did not meet with universal agreement and generated a torrent of letters and pamphlets from those who felt they had not been fairly treated. General William Carr Beresford was a particular bęte noire of Napier, who seemed to be able to do nothing right. Following the publication of Napier’s second volume in 1829, which was particularly uncomplimentary to Beresford, an anonymous champion appeared in print to defend him. The ‘Strictures on Napier’s History’ appeared in 1831 and started a pamphlet war which lasted until 1840 and amounted to over 750 pages of debate. This argument also triggered a parallel argument between Beresford and Charles Edward Long who rose to the defence of his uncle when he was criticised in the subsequent anonymous pamphlet. Later editions of Napier’s ‘History’ make no reference to these arguments although some changes were made. It is very useful when reading Napier to also have access to the information contained in ‘Strictures’ and the following pamphlets, as it tends to alter your view of what you are reading.
The pamphlets, apart from making fascinating reading themselves, contain a huge wealth of detail which was never printed elsewhere, and is invaluable to serious historians. The battle of Albuera, was one of the main points of controversy and many pieces of information are held within the pages of the later pamphlets. They are, unfortunately, almost impossible to get hold of. I have been lucky enough to gain access to a set, and have carefully reprinted a small number to make them available once again. I hope you enjoy reading them as much as I did.
‘Strictures on Napier’s History’ is the first of these pamphlets to be reprinted. I have also included Napier’s reply to the Strictures which was published in 1832.
Printed and bound by hand. No more than 100 copies will be made. Approximately 160 pages in length.
Price Ł40 Sterling. ISBN 0-09522930-1-3
Copyright © December 2002 Mark S Thompson