Deserters and desertion from the British Army and Militia, 1803-5.

What is it about?

The article explores the narrative of the last deserter to be shot on English soil in 1803. It goes on to establish that the broader context for this military execution was a 'desertion crisis' evident in England in the years 1803-5. Finally, the article presents the case that deserters ran the risk of punishment primarily in order to find employment outside of the military.

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Why is it important?

Despite an apparent upswing in nationalism during the invasion scare of 1803-5, this article demonstrates that desertion from the armed forces was unusually high in this period. Using court martial testimony, newspaper reports, and little-used deserter warrants, this article explores why so many men fled their regiments in this period.