The term dates to as early as 1785 and was a nickname for an invalided or pensioned soldier. It is derived from the French word fougeau meaning fierce or fiery. It was a respectful expression.
A Frenchman's Act of Chivalry In the triumph and tragedy of British Colonel Hervey's life, a noble act on the battlefield by a French officer stands out.
Count Dracula's War on Islam A True Story of Cruelty, Power and Betrayal as the real Dracula battles with the Islamic forces of the Ottoman or Turkish Empire.
Simon Bolivar: Liberator of Latin America
Bolivar is one of the most significant military figures in the history of the New World yet is a relative unknown to the English-speaking historical enthusiasts. This article attempts to rectify this.
The Extraordinary Life and Sword Play of Lieutenant John Shipp The life of John Shipp is so interwoven with adventure and bravery, it sounds like a work of fiction. His sword fight with a Ghurka warlord is masterfully recounted by the Lieutenant himself.
The British Firebombing of Quebec, 1759 The most destructive event in the entire French and Indian War was the bombardment of Quebec. Fire was used on both sides from fire ships to firebombs. What happened and the technology used is covered here.
On the Thin Red Line: Loading and Firing Muskets in the Crimean War, 1854-56
How did the British survive the onslaught of Russian cavalry while still deployed in line? A rapid rate of fire and a good bayonet. This article provides the drill procedure of loading and firing used by British infantry, along with insights into what the British were armed with.
How to Mount a Flint on American and British Muskets: A History
Is lead, copper or leather better to hold a flint in place? What color of flint was best? How do you adjust the angle for a perfect ignition? Advise from historical sources is revealed.
Royal Navy Uniform in Elizabethan Times
This is a copy of one of the first orders concerning the dress of the Royal Navy. It is reproduced here in old English complete with the original spellings.
Experimental British General Service Medal.
Early into the reign of William IV there was a cry from military officers that a medal be issued for the services of soldiers in times of conflict. Described and illustrated here is one suggested pattern.
Military Tailor Drawings.
Displayed here are some historic tailor drawings of military uniforms of a feature British regiment during the Napoleonic Wars.
The British Grenadiers and their Mitre Caps.
Why did the grenadiers wear tall caps while the rest of the army wore hats? The answer is here along with details on the famous mitre cap.
