Memoirs of the Wars of the Cevennes, Jean Cavalier, 1772

Memoirs of the Wars of the Cevennes offers a vivid first-hand narrative of the Huguenot uprising in southern France at the beginning of the eighteenth century, told by the Camisard leader Colonel Cavalier. It recounts the persecution of Protestant communities, the guerilla campaigns fought in the rugged Cevennes region, and the remarkable negotiations that brought Cavalier into direct contact with Maréchal de Villars and later the King of France. Blending military history, personal testimony, and political insight, the work remains one of the most important contemporary sources for understanding the Camisard revolt and the wider struggle for religious freedom in early modern France.

Memoirs of the Wars of the Cevennes, under Col. Cavalier, In Defence of the Protestants Persecuted in that Country, and of the Peace concluded between him and the Mareschal D. of Villars. Of his conference with the King of France, after the Conclusion of the Peace. With letters relating thereto, from Mareschal Villars, and Chamillard Secretary of State: As also, A Map describing the Places mentioned in the Book. By Colonel Cavalier.

Printed for John Clarke, London, 1772. The Second Edition.

This book is missing the title page and pages to viii 'The Dedication'. It begins with the main section of the book - 'The Preface'. There is also no subscriber's list (xv - xxiv). From appearance, this is all that was ever bound into this copy. We have been able to compare this book with a reference copy of the 2nd edition to establish it is indeed the London edition of 1772. Very scarce.

A good copy in full leather binding with raised bands. The binding is heavily worn and the leather has been stabilised with Cellugel. Covers are bumped, title label is faded, and hinges fragile, but bound. The text block is actually very good throughout, with minimal foxing. There are 2 closed tears to page edges. The fold out map is intact except for 2 tears (see photo), and has a couple of small stains.

Text in English. 

ix-xiv + Map + 348pp.

Dimensions: Approximately 129mm wide x 202mm x 30mm.

Weight approximately 426g (unpacked).