War to the death

the long version

A comprehensive overview of the Napoleon's efforts to take the city of Saragossa (Zaragoza) in northeastern Spain, 1808-1809. The book begins by explaining the national character of 19th century Spaniards, the decline of Spain after it's greatness in the 15-16th centuries, the mockery which was the Spanish court at the time of the Napoleonic Wars, and how the French were able to literal walk in to Spain and begin an occupation. Rudforff also elaborates about the ramifications of the prolonged French sieges at Saragossa, and argues that it would play a major part in the eventual demise of France's imperial power. Specifically, the sieges at Saragossa tied up thousands of French troops for months (or more) on end, and allowed the English more tactical options on how to engage Napoleon's over-stretched armies. The book also covers all the main players, both French and Spanish. Rudorff uses multiple primary sources, such as soldiers journal entries, etc, to add color to his chronological historical narrative. Rudorff explains why Saragossa was besieged on two occasions by the French, and examines the day-to-day battles in and around the city in brutal detail. Saragossa's resistance to Napoleon's troops is an example of urban guerrilla warfare, and is a fine addition to readers interested not only in Napoleonic Warfare, but also unorthodox/ total warfare in the modern era.