crimea Flashcards
What was the British style of land warfare during the Crimean War?
Infantry in line firing muskets with artillery support; cavalry with big swords at the gallop
This style had hardly changed since the French Wars.
What was the significance of the new French Minie rifle?
It had three times the range of the muskets used by most Russians and fired a Minie ball that could inflict serious wounds
This rifle gave the British and French an edge in warfare.
When was the last major European battle fought by the British army before the Crimean War?
Since Waterloo
The British army had fought colonial wars in India and Afghanistan.
What event in 1857 shocked British military complacency?
The Indian Rebellion
This event highlighted issues in Britain’s military readiness.
What was the main job of the British navy during the Crimean War?
To blockade the Russian fleet, transport the army, safeguard supplies, and lend gunfire support when needed
The navy remained one of Britain’s best fighting tools.
What were some shortcomings of the British army’s support services?
Dependence on civilian contractors, inefficiency, and fraud
The commissariat arranged food, supplies, and transport.
Who led the British army expedition that arrived in Varna in June 1854?
Lord Raglan
The expedition aimed to attack the Russians in the Crimea.
What was the outcome of the Battle of the Alma on 20th September 1854?
Allied forces outnumbered the Russians and eventually forced them to retreat
The battle revealed shortcomings in allied leadership and organization.
What significant military action is known for the ‘thin red line’?
Stand of the 93rd Foot at Balaclava
The Highlanders stood their ground against Russian cavalry.
What was the result of the Charge of the Light Brigade?
Heavy casualties with 113 killed and 134 wounded
It became emblematic of leadership problems in the Crimea.
What was the main objective of the allies during the siege of Sevastopol?
To capture the Russian port of Sevastopol
This was their prime objective during the Crimean War.
What was one consequence of the November 1854 storm in the Crimea?
The allied camps were wrecked and many ships carrying supplies were sunk
This led to severe shortages and suffering among soldiers.
What was the outcome of the siege of Sevastopol by September 1855?
Allies captured Sevastopol
The French took the Malakoff redoubt, and the British captured the Little Redan.
What was Lord Raglan’s reputation after the Crimean War?
His reputation came under fire and critics called for change
Raglan’s conduct was seen as indicative of deeper problems within the army.
What was Florence Nightingale’s role during the Crimean War?
She led a team of volunteer nurses to improve medical care for wounded soldiers
Nightingale’s efforts were significant in addressing healthcare issues.
Fill in the blank: The British army’s supply systems were hampered by an obsolete _______.
[commissariat]
This affected their ability to cope with the demands of war.
True or False: The British army’s uniforms during the Crimean War were modern and innovative.
False
The uniforms were mostly bright red jackets, identical to those worn at Waterloo.
What was the main criticism of the British army’s leadership during the Crimean War?
Lack of professionalism and inability to communicate and cooperate
These issues were revealed during battles like Alma and Balaclava.
What was the impact of the Charge of the Light Brigade on military perception?
It symbolized poor planning, poor communication, and conflicting orders
The bravery of soldiers contrasted with leadership failures.
What were the conditions faced by soldiers during the Crimean Winter?
Cold, hunger, disease, and inadequate shelter
Many soldiers died from disease rather than enemy action.
What did the allies rely on for their siege of Sevastopol?
Siege guns including mortars and trench warfare
This method was a precursor to modern warfare tactics.
Who were the main targets in the spring attack on Sevastopol?
Mamelon fort, Redan, Malakoff, Little Redan
These were strong points that needed to be captured.
Who led the team of volunteer nurses sent to the Crimea?
Florence Nightingale
Nightingale was asked by her friend Sidney Herbert to lead the team.
In what year did Nightingale set sail with her team of nurses?
October 1854
