Great Generals: Wellington & Haig Compared

Published on 9 March 2021
Submitted by Prof Gary Sheffield

Just a few days before what would have been John Terraine's 100th birthday, it seems appropriate to review Terraine's major work 'Great Generals' in which he compared the careers of Field Marshal Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington and Field Marshal Sir Douglas Haig.

In this presentation Prof Gary Sheffield will asses the changes in warfare 1792-1918, how the two men dealt with resources and improvisation, look at other so called 'Sepoy Generals'. Gary will also talk about their experiences of coalition warfare, and attrition and also speak about 'The British Tradition of Generalship'.

Great Generals: Wellington & Haig Compared
Key benefits of membership

Becoming a member of The Western Front Association (WFA) offers a wealth of resources and opportunities for those passionate about the history of the First World War. Here's just three of the benefits we offer:

Bulletin Magazine Icon
Bulletin Magazine

This magazine provides updates on WW1 related news, WFA activities and events.

Virtual Battlefield Tours Icon
Virtual battlefield tours

Access online tours of significant WWI sites, providing immense learning experience.

Podcasts Ebinars Icon
Podcasts

Listen to over 300 episodes of the "Mentioned in Dispatches" podcast.

Other Articles

02 Worcestershire Regiment Officers
13 January 2026

From Birkenhead to Bazentin

Read more
Square 25
11 January 2026

1000 Yards, 1000 Bodies - WW1 In A Single Field

Read more
The Rush To Arms In 1914
5 January 2026

The Rush to Arms in 1914

Read more
Asylum Cemetery Ypres IWM
29 December 2025

The ‘disappeared’ cemeteries

Read more
James Marshall VC
22 December 2025

The Making of a Hero: James Neville Marshall VC

Read more