History of the Peninsular War, Volume 3 (of 6)

The opening of this volume sets the stage for the tumultuous final years of the Peninsular War, focusing on the fragile alliance forged between Britain and Spain. It details the London‑signed treaty that pledged mutual support against Napoleon, affirmed Ferdinand VII’s legitimacy, and promised to safeguard Spanish overseas possessions. The diplomatic language underscores both nations’ hopes for a lasting peace while still waging a hard‑fought struggle on the Iberian front.

Against this backdrop, the narrative turns to the dramatic surrender of Corunna and the surrounding ports of Galicia. It recounts the uneasy retreat of Sir John Moore’s forces, the anxieties of the British officers, and the unexpected generosity of the local Spanish populace. The governor of Corunna, D. Antonio de Alcedo, emerges as a pivotal figure, balancing military preparation with his scholarly legacy. These early episodes illustrate the complex interplay of strategy, honor, and human resilience that defines the war’s opening act.