Author: An Officer [Michael Dorset]
Title: An Essay on Defensive War and a Constitutional Militia
Description: London, T. Evans; J. Robson et al, 1782. First edition. Hardback. The first edition of this very scarce late eighteenth century essay on warfare and constitutional militia, using Elizabeth I's defences against the Spanish Armada as an example. Credited to 'An Officer', and thought to be authored by one Michael Dorset, the work is arranged in five chapters.The first chapter discusses the prospect of an invasion of England, the second provides a 'historic view of the principles of defensive war', and the third discusses the 'internal arrangements of England in former periods' (including the preparations made prior to the attack of the Spanish Armada). The final two chapters discuss the use of militias, the 'general idea of defence' and 'utility of association&apos.ESTC reference T144289With an errata to the verso of the contents page, and with a thirty-four page appendix to the rear.With a stamp to the front pastedown.The first edition of this very scarce essay on military theory, offering unique insight into attitudes to military defensive strategies in the late eighteenth century. In a tree calf binding. Lacking spine label. Significant losses to leather at perimeters of front board, with leather lifting at head and fore edge of front board. Joints starting. Front board tenderly held by three cords only, with rear board holding firm. Stamp to front pastedown. Internally, firmly bound. Pages age toned, with spotting throughout. Good Only . Ill.: None. Good Only .

Keywords: military history Michael Dorset elizabeth I British Museum Michael Dorset None