Osprey Men-at-Arms 201 : The British Army on Campaign (4) 1882-1902

The Army of 1882 had just emerged from the many modernising reforms effected between 1856-81. These included: centralisation of the logistic support into Departmental Corps; opening of schools of instruction; abolition of the purchase of commissions; improvements in pay, living conditions and disciplinary measures; new weapons and tactics; and greater integration of the second-line Militia and Volunteer Force with the Regular Army. To fit the Army for its dual role of Imperial garrisoning and possible intervention in Europe (needs which in many ways conflicted) without recourse to conscription, enlistment had been altered from long to short service, part with the Colours and part on the Regular Reserve. Foreign garrisons had been reduced; and Line infantry regiments were linked together and localised to enhance recruitment, training and manning of battalions. By 1882 not all the reforms of the previous 25 years had been as successful as their initiators had hoped and, though the possibility of a European role remained, the Army had perforce been committed entirely to its Imperial function. This inevitably affected the Army's perception of itself and its approach to fitting itself for war. By these later years of the 19th century the British Army had become the policeman of a vast global Empire. Michael Barthorp details the uniforms, organisation and equipment used in a succession of campaigns across the face of the globe, accompanied by numerous illustrations including eight colour plates by Pierre Turner.

Contents

• Introduction
• Campaigns 1882-1902
• Fighting Methods
• Uniforms, Equipment and Weapons
• Campaign Modifications
• The Plates