Edgehill 1642: The First Battle of the English Civil War

Osprey Campaign #82

by Keith Roberts, John Tincey

This, the first ever Osprey campaign title to deal with the English Civil War (1642-1651), looks at the battle of Edgehill, the first major clash of the Wars. In 1642 both Royalists and Parliamentarians expected that one great contest of arms would see the crushing of their enemies. When their field armies blundered into contact on the evening of 22 October 1642, Prince Rupert urged King Charles to array his army on the great ridge of Edgehill and give battle. The next day, amidst abject cowardice and absolute courage, the tide of battle swept Rupert's cavalry to triumph, but saw victory snatched away as the Royalist infantry was hurled back by the defiant Parliamentarians. The chance for decisive victory was lost and the bloody civil war raged on.

Genres: English Civil War, Military History, History

96 pages, Paperback

First published February 25, 2001

About the author

Keith Roberts is one of the most highly respected English Civil War historians. He has spent more than a decade studying the civil wars in the British Isles and has had a number of books and articles published on the subject.Stephen Walsh studied art at the North East Wales Institute. Since then he has worked mainly for the American historical board-game market, fulfilling a lifelong interest in historical subjects. His American works include the best-selling Settlers of Catan. He has also produced many pieces of artwork inspired by J R R Tolkien. He is married with two children and lives in Macclesfield.

Reviews

[Sean Chick · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dry even by Osprey standards, but it offers a good recounting of the battle with a special emphasis on the tactics used and their European origins.

[Mark Luongo · Rating 2 out of 5]

Typical Osprey.

[Al Berry · Rating 3 out of 5]

A decent Coffee Table book on the first major battle of the ECW, it is standard Osprey fare. Art is good but not Peter Dennis level great.

[Nick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Does what it says on the tin. Would’ve been nice to have more details about the actual fights. But can’t complain.