by Johann Nobili, edited by Christopher Pringe
Warwick, Eng.: Helion / Philadelphia: Casemate, 2021. Pp. 372.
Maps, tables, gazetteer, appends., notes, biblio., index. $49.95 paper. ISBN: 1913118789
A Neglected Campaign of the Revolutions of 1848
The European liberal risings of 1848 are not well covered in English, though collectively the largest and most widespread conflict in Europe between 1815 and 1914. In Hungary, after making some concessions, leading to a new, rather democratic, government in the kingdom, the Austrian Hapsburgs abrogated the new constitution and resorted to force to restore autocratic rule. This touched off a war that lasted about a year.
Originally published in 1851, Hungary 1848 is essentially a semi-official Austrian account of the very successful initial period of Hungarian resistance, which lasted into early 1849. Although rather one-sided, and rarely critical of Austrian actions, it does give a good look at the organization of the armies, operations on all fronts, and covers the principal battles and many smaller actions, often in some detail. It offers insights into mid-nineteenth century military practice and the convoluted institutions of the Hapsburg monarchy.
A volume in the Helion “Muskets to Maxims” series, Hungary 1848: The Winter Campaign is good read for anyone with an interest in the Revolutions of 1848 or European nineteenth military century history
-----///-----