Book Review:
Assaye 1803:
Wellington's First and Bloodiest Victory

By Simon Millar
Artwork by Peter Dennis

Arthur Wellesley, later Duke of Wellington, won his military reputation in Spain and Portugal and sealed his place in history by defeating Napoleon Bonaparte at Waterloo.

Dismissed as the "Sepoy General" by Napoleon, Wellesley did not care about the disdain he was held in and admitted his tactical abilities were "all India."

And it is the early part of his military career that is covered superbly in Osprey's Assaye 1803 : Wellington's First and Bloodiest Victory.

Written by Simon Millar Assaye 1803 is an informative and interesting examination of the fighting in India during the Second Maratha War between 1803 and 1805.

Millar explains the complicated political situation on the sub-continent expertly and sets up the clash of arms by detailing both the opposing leaders and armies, as well as providing a two-page chronology of events.

The political and military manouevres are fascinating, the escalade and capture of Ahmednugger fortress is exciting - boosted by the evocative images from artist Peter Dennis - and then the major armed struggle begins between Wellesley and the Maratha chiefs Scindia and Berar.

At Assaye Wellesley's 15,000 men faced upwards of 20,000 enemy infantry and 50,000 cavalry. The clash would be bloody, hard-fought and a true test for the British commander's abilities.

There are not enough books on the British wars in India and this volume of the Campaign Series is a welcome addition to Napoleonic Wars knowledge. Every follower of the Duke of Wellington should get one.

- Richard Moore

9/10

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