A survey into the origins of the army reforms of Archduke John of Austria 1805-1809. The thesis claims that the army reforms were not merely aimed at reforming the army, but through the army the... Show moreA survey into the origins of the army reforms of Archduke John of Austria 1805-1809. The thesis claims that the army reforms were not merely aimed at reforming the army, but through the army the political, social en economical structure of the Empire as well. John was influenced intellectually by his father, the emperor Leopold II, and Johannes von Müller, a Swiss historian of the early romantic school. John of Austria saw that limited warfare was something of the 18th century, and tried to realize a style of warfare that he thought would be more suited to a people's war. The survey ends with a chapter on the war of 1809, looks into Johns experiences in its campaigns and concludes that the Austrian defeat meant the defeat of the reform party in Habsburg politics as well. Show less
For nearly twenty-five years, the Dutch West India Company (WIC) occupied part of the northeast of Brazil. This situation, which pertained long ago in the distant past of the XVII century remains... Show moreFor nearly twenty-five years, the Dutch West India Company (WIC) occupied part of the northeast of Brazil. This situation, which pertained long ago in the distant past of the XVII century remains one of the most discussed and studied themes both within and outside the academic world up to the present day. The sugar trade, society, religion, slave trade and the life and work of individuals are all discussed. Although the most important battles on land and sea in the area were regularly described in many historical narratives, some of the most important protagonists in the process of the conquest and occupation of Brazil were forgotten: the soldiers of the WIC. This research was set up with the objectives of reconstructing the life history of a selection of the many anonymous characters who participated in the conquest and occupation of Brazil and investigating the conditions of everyday life for the people of war sent to Brazil between 1629 and 1653. Show less
