History of the Peninsular War, Volume 1 (of 6)

"History of the Peninsular War, Volume 1 (of 6)" by Robert Southey is a historical record that explores the Peninsular War, a struggle involving Spain, Portugal, and France during the Napoleonic era. Southey aims to explore the military happenings of the war, as well as its political and social effects on Europe, by concentrating primarily on the virtues and struggles of the countries involved. The book starts by describing the state of Spain and Portugal leading up to the war, and the negative effects of France's growth when Napoleon was in charge. Southey talks about how glorious these countries once were and how they weakened because of problems inside and pressure outside, from France. Before the war, both countries were in their own moral standings. This helps readers understand the patriotism and strength that would later define how they fought in the Peninsular War. This lays out the historical background, capturing the complex nature and challenges that marked the time before the war and the clash with the French.