The vast scale and number of battles that the British Empire engaged in during its colonial expansion is truly monumental. It is this historical enormity that has inspired the creation of this book series, "The Battles of the British Empire." This series serves as a tribute to the remarkable military endeavours and strategic genius demonstrated by the British forces over centuries. It seeks to explore and document the various conflicts that defined an era and shaped the modern world. In my recent book, "Great Military Units of History," I ranked the British Empire's forces second only to the Mongols among the greatest martial races in history. This distinction was not given lightly but after careful consideration of the British Redcoats' varied regiments and their strategic prowess.
The British Redcoats, with their distinctive uniforms and unwavering discipline, stood out in numerous historical engagements. Their ability to adapt to different environments and combat situations was unparalleled. Whether facing formidable enemies in the dense jungles of India or the arid deserts of Africa, the Redcoats proved their mettle time and again. What sets the British Empire's forces, alongside the Mongols, ahead of all others is their propensity for venturing into the unknown. Unlike other military forces that often fought within familiar territories, the British Empire frequently found itself in uncharted lands, contending with unfamiliar terrains, climates, and cultures.
In embarking on this series, I extend my gratitude to you, the reader, for your interest in this expansive topic. It is my hope that people from the Commonwealth and beyond will find this work both informative and engaging. This includes not only the well-documented battles but also those that have been overshadowed by time and more prominent events.
Moreover, this series acknowledges the significant yet often overlooked contributions of various martial races and groups within the British Empire. For instance, the Sikh involvement in the British military efforts is a chapter of history that has not received the attention it deserves, particularly after the last Sikh Wars ended in 1849. The bravery and loyalty of Sikh soldiers were instrumental in many British campaigns, and their legacy deserves recognition and remembrance.
Writing this series has been an epic undertaking for me as an author. The research required has been extensive and challenging, delving into the histories of numerous martial races and groups. My goal has been to ensure that their contributions are not forgotten and that the full scope of the British Empire's military history is brought to light. The stories of these battles and the men who fought them are not just accounts of military engagements but are integral parts of the rich tapestry of history.
The British Empire was as much an empire of trade as an empire of conquest. It was, at times, the nearest thing we had to a United Nations. Through this series, I hope to honour the memory of these soldiers and their battles, ensuring that their stories are told and remembered for generations to come. This book has been penned with the youngsters and inquisitive minds of today in mind, who are much smarter than the people of my day and just need to know stuff fast and concise. Therefore, I hope the reader is able to persevere through this rich history and finds it as enlightening and engaging as it has been for me to write.