A history of the Peninsular War, Vol. 1, 1807-1809 : $b From the treaty of Fontainbleau to the battle of Corunna

"A History of the Peninsular War, Vol. 1, 1807-1809" by Charles Oman is an exploration of the early years of a major conflict, opening with an overview of Europe as it moves toward an era of war, covering the period marked by Napoleon's strategies in Spain and Portugal. The book paints a picture of political moves and military planning during the Peninsular War, from the Treaty of Fontainebleau to the Battle of Corunna. It untangles the relationships between France and Spain and the weak monarchy under King Charles IV. The narrative introduces key characters like Manuel Godoy and Ferdinand of Asturias, setting the scene for a conflict that involved many countries and changed the map of Europe.