Honourable Conquests - An Account Of The Enduring Work Of The Royal Engineers Throughout The Empire.
By A.J. Smithers
Published by Leo Cooper: London 1991 1st Edition
"The Royal Engineers, a corps of the British Army, played a crucial role in building and maintaining the infrastructure that supported the British Empire. From the 18th century onward, they were instrumental in constructing roads, bridges, ports, railways, and fortifications across Britain's colonies, enabling the rapid movement of troops and resources. They also developed key military technologies and were pioneers in fields like cartography, surveying, and communications, including the laying of telegraph cables that linked parts of the empire. Their work extended to civilian infrastructure as well, often influencing urban planning and engineering standards in colonial territories.
Beyond construction, the Royal Engineers provided critical support in times of war, acting as sappers, miners, and combat engineers during major conflicts like the Crimean War, the Indian Rebellion, and the Boer War. Their expertise allowed British forces to overcome geographic and logistical challenges in remote parts of the world. The corps not only reinforced imperial control through their technical and military contributions but also helped disseminate British engineering practices globally. Their legacy is still visible today in many former colonies where their work laid the foundations for modern infrastructure and military organization."
Light wear to dustjacket. Small, neat inscription on inside cover behind dustjacket flap. As good a copy as you'll find in very good condition overall. Please study photos to further understand condition.
