HISTORY OF THE IRISH BRIGADES IN THE SERVICE OF FRANCE

Originally published in 1870, John O'Callaghan's book remains the standard work on the subject. Very large numbers of "The Wild Geese", as the Irish soldiers in exile were called, served in the French army during the period from 1688 to 1789. They participated in all of the major battles and campaigns of the period, more than once crossing arms with Irish soldiers in the service of Britain. This book provides an extraordinarily detailed account of their activities. O'Callaghan's study provides an account of the formation of the first Irish troops in French service between 1688 and 1691, and the subsequent creation of further regiments, and their service up to 1701. Much space in the book is given over to the Irish participation in the War of the Spanish Succession, including campaigns in Italy, Flanders, Germany and the Peninsula. Other important campaigns covered include the War of the Austrian Succession - notably the battles of Dettingen and Fontenoy (in which latter action the Irish troops particularly distinguished themselves), the Jacobite Rebellion of 1745, the Seven Years' War 1756-1763, and the fortunes of France's Irish units sent to assist in the American War of Independence between 1778 and 1783. "The History of the Irish Brigades" is a tour-de-force of research, containing an incredible amount of information relating to the Irish troops - the level of detail provided concerning regiments of individual officers is unprecedented, making this a treasure trove for genealogists. The text is readable, lively and full of interest, packed with anecdotes. The author spent over twenty years engaged in researching this book, and there can be no doubt it was a labour of love. Reprint of the 1870 original edition.