Bussaco 1810

This Osprey title details the gruelling Bussaco campaign of the Napoleonic Wars (1799-1815), as French attempts to subdue Portugal reached their climax. By 1810, Napoleon reigned supreme over most of continental Europe. But the Iberian Peninsula remained unsubdued, particularly Portugal, which continued to resist. Napoleon ordered Marshal Masséna to crush this resistance with the Army of Portugal. Greatly strengthened, Masséna's army would drive the Portuguese and British into the sea. Facing the French were 60,000 British and Portuguese troops. No-one knew how the Portuguese would perform in battle, but on 27 September 1810, they received their baptism of fire.

René Chartrand

Origins of the Campaign Chronology Opposing Commanders Opposing Armies Opposing Plans Masséna invades northern Portugal The Siege of Almeida Wellington on the defensive The Battle of Bussaco Aftermath The Battlefield today Bibliography Index