Prussian Line Infantry 1792–1815
At the beginning of this period, the battalions of the Prussian Line usually fought in a linear formation three ranks deep, overwhelming the enemy with fire before a well-timed bayonet attack.
By the end, the preferred formation was eight to 12 ranks deep. The responsibility for conducting the fire-fight was now given to the skirmish elements and the artillery. The formed battalions provided support for the fire line, and conducted the decisive bayonet charge. Whatever the change, the spirit and ability of the infantry remained consistently high throughout this bloody period.
Peter Hofschroer's text is accompanied by illustrations throughout.
Peter Hofschroer is a recognised expert on the German campaigns of the Napoleonic wars and the Prussian army in particular. His books for Osprey Publishing include Leipzig 1813 in the Campaign series.
Bryan Fosten was born in 1928, the son of a Master Military Embroiderer and a Court Embroidress. He served in the army in Egypt and Palestine and returned to follow the printing trade. Since 1973 he has devoted himself to military research and illustration. He is the founding editor of the innovative magazine Tradition and has written and illustrated many books, often in collaboration with his late brother, Donald Fosten.