Army Reforms - Pre Cardwell Flashcards
What was the context behind the Duke of York reforms?
After the disastrous Flanders campaign in which the British Army performed incredibly poorly against revolutionary France the Duke of York was made Commander in Chief in 1795.
In what ways did the Duke of York Reforms limit the purchase of commissions?
He removed the purchase of the Lance - Corporal Position which was the lowest position, very limited due to it requiring parliamentary approval.
How did the Duke of York Reforms try and deal with the ineptitude of officers?
A military training collge for officers was established in Sandhurst which helped improve experience.
How did the Duke of York Reforms try to improve Morale?
Pay was improved for soldiers but only slightly and flogging was reduced but only to a small extent and was still common practice.
What significant new military regiment was created by the Duke of York Reforms?
It led to the creation of light infantry which Wellington used extensively in his campaigns for example at Fuentes de Onoro.
What did the Duke of York Reforms lead to the Construction of?
It led to the construction of a series of Martello Towers across the coast in case of a French Invasion.
What limit reforms did Aberdeen introduce before he was forced to resign?
The war and colonial offices were separated which helped deal with bureaucracy issues for both branches.
He also made the secretary of state for war a cabinet position which helped strengthen the government.
What did Palmerston do in regards to the commissariat?
He put the newly created War Office in control of supply with the Board of Ordinance being disestablished in 1855 in order to resolve supply problems.
What departments did Palmerston give the army control over?
He established the army medical department after the disastrous medical issues in Crimea.
He also established the Land Transport Corp in order to reduce the reliance on civilian wagons which were hired locally.
Less importantly an army clothing department was established.
All of this significantly cut red tape.
How did Palmerston try and reduce the standards of the army?
He created educational requirements for officers in an attempt to make command more effective.
