History of the war in the Peninsula and in the south of France from the year 1807 to the year 1814, vol. 1

"History of the War in the Peninsula and in the South of France from the Year 1807 to the Year 1814" by William Francis Patrick Napier is a book offering a detailed historical perspective on the Peninsular War, highlighting the complex interactions between France, Spain, England, and Portugal. Napier aims to give a more truthful depiction of the war using firsthand accounts and original papers, challenging previous historical interpretations. The beginning explains the political and military situation before the war, including the problems within the Spanish royal family, Napoleon's involvement, and France's goals. He points out how past histories have missed the details of Spain's reaction to the French invasion, especially how the disunity and dishonesty of Spanish leaders added to the crisis, and sets the scene with the expectation of Spanish revolt and a growing sense of patriotism in the face of the looming battles against the French.