Table of Contents

Introduction – development of Light Infantry tactics in the 18th century American wars – neglect after 1783
The challenge – development of tirailleur tactics by the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic armies
Creation of the Rifle units (Experimental Corps of Riflemen; 60th Royal Americans; 95th Rifle Brigade) – creation of the Light Infantry companies within Line battalions – creation of Light Infantry regiments: 43rd, 51st, 52nd, 68th, 71st, 85th & 90th
Doctrine and training: de Rottenberg, Manningham, and Sir John Moore – the Shorncliffe method
Integration of Rifles into infantry formations
Campaign history, from Toulon (1793) to Waterloo (1815), with quoted examples: the Light Division in the Peninsula – evolution of tactics through battlefield experience

Promotional Information

Explains and illustrates the training and tactics of the Light Infantry and Rifle regiments, famously dramatized in the 'Sharpe' novels and TV films. This comprehensive guide will certainly appeal to modellers, wargamers, re-enactors and anyone interested in the Napoleonic wars.

About the Author

Philip Haythornthwaite is an internationally respected author and historical consultant specializing in the military history, uniforms and equipment of the 18th and 19th centuries. His main area of research covers the Napoleonic Wars. He has written some 40 books, including more than 20 Osprey titles, and numerous articles and papers on military history – but still finds time to indulge in his other great passion, cricket.

Adam Hook studied graphic design, and began his work as an illustrator in 1983. He specializes in detailed historical reconstructions, and has illustrated Osprey titles on subjects as diverse as the Aztecs, the Ancient Greeks, Roman battle tactics, several 19th-century American subjects, the modern Chinese Army, and a number of books in the Fortress series. His work features in exhibitions and publications throughout the world.