Death or Glory: The Legacy of the Crimean War

Edgerton's book about the Crimean War does not just cover the battles. It covers the British society of that time who thought a war would be a fine thing because they hadn't had one in 40 years. It covers the stupidity of the British high command, both on the spot and in Britain, and the suffering that this stupidity caused those fine British soldiers who did their duty. Kipling would approve of this book.

Robert Egerton did a wonderful job of expressing what it was like for soldier and civilians who lived (and died) during the Crimean War. The hardships that the soldiers, sailors and civilians endured was truly amazing! Mr. Egerton's description and antedotes really drove this home. I must admit that the book would have been more enjoyable if I had had any knowledge of the Crimean War before I read the book. My ignorance made the battle references somewhat hard to follow. I highly recommend this book.