THE LINES OF TORRES VEDRAS

The Cornerstone of Wellington’s Strategy in the Peninsular War 1809-12

(JOHN GREHAN)

This is the first book to examine in detail the role of one of the most important fortifications in military history, the Lines of Torres Vedras in the Peninsular War.  In 1809 the French armies controlled almost every Spanish province and only Wellington's small force in Portugal stood between Napoleon and the conquest of Iberia.

The French invaded Portugal but found their way blocked by the greatest range of field fortifications the world had ever seen – the Lines of Torres Vedras.  Unable to penetrate the Lines, the French were driven back into Spain having suffered the heaviest defeat yet experienced by Napoleon's armies.  From the security of the Lines, Wellington was then able to mount the offensive campaigns which ultimately brought him victory in the Peninsula.

This is an account of the planning, construction, and occupation of the Lines and of the battles, sieges, and horrors of the French invasion.  It is also a challenging new study of Wellington's strategy during the crucial years of the Peninsular War.

This 2004 edition paperback is in very good overall condition although there are some signs of wear to the cover in the form of minor bumps and knocks to the edges and corners (see photograph).  All pages are present, tightly bound, and free from tears, creases, and significant marks.  The book runs to 226 pages (23.5cm x 15.5cm), includes a couple of interesting appendices, a general index, and is illustrated with several maps plus an additional 8 pages of photographs.