crimean war (1853 - 1856) Flashcards
(41 cards)
When was the Crimean war and who were the main combatants?
1853-56
Britain, France and the Ottoman Empire fought against Russia to prevent Russia from expanding into the Balkans (protecting the European balance of power)
What role did logistics play in the failure at Crimea?
British logistics were poor, lack of medical care, inadequate supplies, and slow transport meant soldiers lacked food, clothes and shelter during the harsh winter
Why did Britain join the Crimean war?
To check Russian expansion, maintain the balance of power in Europe and to protect access to trade routes and india
What was the Battle of Alma (20 sept 1854)?
First major battle
British and French forces defeated the Russians, it exposed flaws in the coordination and highlighted superior allied weaponry
What role did prince menshikov play?
Russian commander in the battle of Alma
Failed to hold high ground due to poor deployment and underestimated allied strength
What was the battle of balaclava (25 oct 1854)?
Featured three famous events
The thin red line, the charge of the heavy brigade, and the disastrous charge of the light brigade.
What caused the charge of the light brigade?
Miscommunication between lord raglan, captain Nolan, and lord Lucan. Lord cardigan led a front cavalry charge into Russian artillery
What were the casualties of the charge of the light brigade?
673 cavalry charged, 110 were killed, around 160 wounded and many horses lost
What was the Thin Red Line?
At Balaclava, the 93rd Highlanders repelled a Russian cavalry charge with disciplined musket volleys, symbolising British stoicism.
What happened at the battle of inkerman (5 nov 1854)?
Foggy conditions led to close quarter combat. Despite being heavily outnumbered, British and French forces he,d off Russian attacks
How many Russian troops attacked at Inkerman?
About 42,000 Russians attacked 13,000 British troops; the Allies held out, aided by French reinforcements.
What was the siege of Sevastopol (Oct 1854 – Sept 1855)?
A prolonged siege of Russia’s Black Sea naval base. Bad weather, poor logistics, and disease plagued the Allies.
Why did the siege of Sevastopol take so long?
Russian defences were stronger than expected; poor Allied coordination and winter conditions slowed the assault.
What was the result of the Siege of Sevastopol?
City fell in September 1855. Marked the turning point of the war, leading to Russian defeat.
What was the state of the British army’s logistics?
Logistics were chaotic: delays in transport, shortage of winter clothing and rations, and inadequate shelter.
How many British soldiers died, and from what causes?
21,000 British deaths; about 16,000 were from disease and exposure rather than combat.
Who was Florence Nightingale?
A nurse who revolutionised medical care at Scutari hospital. Reduced death rates from 42% to 2% with better hygiene and organisation.
What was Nightingale’s long-term impact?
She established the Army Medical School and influenced public health reforms in Britain.
Who was Mary Seacole?
Jamaican nurse who set up the “British Hotel” near the front lines to treat soldiers. Hailed by soldiers for her battlefield bravery.
What did the McNeill-Tulloch Report (1855–56) reveal?
Exposed failures in supply, corruption, and lack of planning. Led to reforms in military administration.
How did the press influence the Crimean War?
Reporters like William Howard Russell (The Times) exposed conditions, fuelling public outrage and government pressure to reform.
How did Lord Raglan perform as commander?
Criticised for vague orders and poor leadership, especially in the Light Brigade debacle. Died of illness in 1855.
What role did telegraphs play?
Allowed faster communication with Britain. Telegraph lines shortened decision-making delays and enabled quicker reporting.
What were the conditions at Scutari hospital before Nightingale?
Overcrowded, unsanitary, with blocked sewers and rats. Most deaths were from disease rather than wounds.
