Grandes Soldados Españoles

From the borders of medieval Spain to the streets of Madrid in 1808, this work covers eight centuries of history through the lives of seven exceptional soldiers who shaped the destiny of Spain and Europe. Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar conquered Valencia, Gonzalo Fernández de Córdoba revolutionized the art of war in Italy, laying the foundations for the future Tercios, Hernán Cortés overthrew the Mexica Empire and founded New Spain, The Duke of Alba led the Spanish Tercios to their greatest glory, Álvaro de Bazán's mastery of seamanship was decisive in the triumph of the Christian fleet at Lepanto, Bernardo de Gálvez contributed decisively to the independence of the United States, and Luis Daoiz became a symbol of Spanish resistance against Napoleon. This book brings together the biographies of exceptional soldiers written by leading specialists in Spanish military history. These are not idealized portraits, but rigorous biographies of complex men in complex times. Personalities shaped in a Spain that spanned four continents and needed leaders capable of understanding both the local realities and the global dimensions of each conflict. The Spain that was forged by those who built it with sword in hand, but also with the intelligence, courage, and strategic vision demanded by some of the most decisive moments in our history.

Pages: 352, Edition: 1 armband, Paperback, Almuzara