The Yeomanry Cavalry and Military Identities in Rural Britain, 1815–1914

Description

This volume represents the first dedicated study of the British Yeomanry Cavalry, delving into the institution’s history from the cessation of hostilities with France in 1815 through to the eve of the First World War in 1914. This social history explores the Yeomanry’s composition and place within British society, as well as its controversial role in policing before and after Peterloo, and its unique contribution to the war in South Africa. Overturning or challenging many enduring myths and accepted truths, this book breaks new ground not just in our understanding of the Yeomanry, but the wider amateur military tradition. Front Matter ....Pages i-xxiii The Yeomanry and the State, 1815–1899 (George Hay)....Pages 1-32 The Officer Corps (George Hay)....Pages 33-72 The Rank and File (George Hay)....Pages 73-107 British Society, Poplar Perception and Public Support (George Hay)....Pages 109-135 Aid to the Civil Power (George Hay)....Pages 137-170 South Africa, 1899−1902 (George Hay)....Pages 171-208 Rebirth and Reinvention: Army Reform, 1902–1914 (George Hay)....Pages 209-244 Back Matter ....Pages 245-284