The Battles of Bonnie Prince Charlie: The Young Chevalier at War

Prince Charles Edward Stuart (1720-1788) was the grandson of Britain's last Stuart king and the last of his line to fight for their right to the throne. He embarked on a secret and seemingly desperate expedition to Scotland in 1745, leading to the 45. This book reveals his strengths and flaws as a commander, and the difficult relationships he had with the people on whom his fortunes and reputation would depend. It is the story of how the prince faced conflicts both on and off the battlefield, weathered challenges posed by friends as well as foes, and left a legacy which remains hotly contested to this day.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 30 September 2023
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

Prince Charles Edward Stuart, born in Rome in 1720, held a unique position in British history as the grandson of the last Stuart king and the final member of his line to fight for the throne. Raised in a cultured and cosmopolitan court-in-exile, Stuart faced immense expectations from a young age, yearning to prove his worth. However, when it seemed his best opportunity had passed, he embarked on a secret and seemingly desperate expedition to Scotland in 1745. This extraordinary episode, known as the 45, became one of the most remarkable, famous, and often misrepresented chapters in Scottish history.

This book delves into the story of the last Jacobite rising, led by the charismatic but controversial Stuart prince. Through the words of those who served alongside him, it presents a human portrait of the Stuart prince, revealing his strengths and flaws as a commander and the complex relationships he had with the very people whose fortunes and reputation would depend on his actions.

Tracing Stuart's journey across the battlefields of Prestonpans, Falkirk, and Culloden, the book sheds light on his abilities and challenges as a commander. It explores the conflicts he faced both on and off the battlefield, navigating challenges posed by friends and foes alike. Moreover, it examines the lasting legacy left by Stuart, a legacy that remains hotly contested to this day.

The book offers a fresh perspective on the life and times of Prince Charles Edward Stuart, challenging prevailing narratives and providing a more nuanced understanding of this fascinating historical figure. It serves as a valuable contribution to the study of Scottish history and offers insights into the complex dynamics of power, loyalty, and ambition in the late 18th century.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399061148