A. J. BARKER - The Vainglorious War. 1854-56

London England, Weidenfeld and Nicolson, 1970. First Edition, Binding: Cloth, Very Good/Very Good. 8vo - over 7¾" - 9¾" tall 0297002155 Hardback Colonel Barker's detailed and vigorous account of the Crimean campaigns, during which both the French and the English leaders died of illness and exhaustion, point up the virtues and defects of the strategy, diplomacy and military administration on both sides; and finally nominates the British private soldier as the hero of the campaign. The Crimean War tends to be remembered principally for a cavalry charge and the heroism of a woman. The author's memorable account takes a long-range, more objective stand, which includes in its focus the Russian view, and which brings alive the battles of Alma, Inkerman, Balaclava and Sebastopol. Very slight foxing to edges. Couple of closed tears to top edge of D/J.