The Untold Story: Sharpe's Devil, Napoleon, and the Liberation of South America in 1820-1821

When we think of the Napoleonic Wars, we often picture the campaigns across Europe or the infamous Battle of Waterloo. However, a fascinating chapter in this period's history is often overlooked - the involvement of British officer Richard Sharpe in the liberation of South America in 1820-1821. In this article, we will delve into the extraordinary events surrounding Sharpe's journey to the New World, his encounters with Napoleon, and the impact of these events on the South American continent.

The Departure

In 1820, Richard Sharpe found himself at a crossroads. Having served in the British Army throughout the Napoleonic Wars, he yearned for a new adventure far from his European battlegrounds. It was during this time that a secret mission was proposed to him by General Sir David Baird. The mission? To complete what countless others had failed to achieve - liberating South America from Spanish rule.

The Spanish colonies in South America had long desired their independence, and Spain's ongoing wars in Europe had weakened its control over its overseas territories. Sharpe, known for his daring exploits, was the perfect candidate for this dangerous mission. Equipped with his expertise in guerrilla warfare and his unwavering determination, he accepted the challenge and set sail for South America.

Sharpe's Devil: Napoleon and South America, 1820-1821

by Bernard Cornwell(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	557 KB
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Print length	:	323 pages

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Encountering Napoleon

Little did Sharpe know, his path would soon intertwine with another legendary figure of the era - Napoleon Bonaparte. During his voyage, Sharpe's ship made an unexpected stop on the island of Saint Helena, where Napoleon was exiled after his defeat at Waterloo. Their encounter was more than a mere coincidence; it was the meeting of two military icons whose lives had become entwined by fate.

At first, their encounter was tense, as Sharpe, a loyal soldier of the British Empire, viewed Napoleon as the embodiment of tyranny and oppression. However, both men soon discovered a mutual respect and fascination for each other's accomplishments. As they conversed, Sharpe gained invaluable insights into Napoleon's military tactics, while Napoleon admired Sharpe's bravery and battle instincts.

An Unlikely Alliance

Realizing the strategic importance of South America, Napoleon recognized an opportunity to disrupt British influence in the region. He proposed an alliance with Sharpe, suggesting that they join forces to liberate the continent and establish a new order. Sharpe, torn between his loyalty to the British Empire and his thirst for adventure, found himself facing an unprecedented choice.

In the end, Sharpe decided to align with Napoleon's cause for two reasons. Firstly, he believed that the liberation of South America would ultimately serve the interest of humanity and freedom. Secondly, Sharpe saw an opportunity to use his newly acquired knowledge of Napoleon's tactics against the British forces, who he felt had mistreated him throughout his military career.

The Liberation of South America

With their forces combined, Sharpe and Napoleon set out to rally support from the local South American populations who were eager to break free from Spanish rule. Sharpe's reputation as a fearless leader and his ability to mobilize guerrilla forces proved invaluable. As they advanced across the continent, they won numerous strategic victories against Spanish forces, gradually weakening their grip on the region.

The culmination of their campaign came in 1821 when they captured the city of Lima, marking a significant turning point in the fight for South American independence. News of their success resonated across the continent, inspiring further uprisings and spurring on the revolutionary forces.

The Legacy

The impact of Sharpe's interventions in South America cannot be overstated. The British Empire, distracted by its own internal struggles and the ever-present Napoleon, was unable to respond effectively. This allowed South American revolutionaries to consolidate their power, leading to the eventual independence of numerous nations, including Argentina, Chile, and Peru.

Despite his controversial alliance with Napoleon, Sharpe has been regarded as a national hero in these countries, etching his name in their histories as a key figure in their liberation. His story highlights the complexity of loyalties during times of war and showcases the influence of determined individuals willing to push beyond boundaries to achieve what others deemed impossible.

The untold story of Sharpe's devil, Napoleon, and the liberation of South America in 1820-1821 sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of the Napoleonic Wars. Richard Sharpe's daring exploits and his unlikely alliance with Napoleon created a ripple effect that changed the course of history for South America. This forgotten chapter serves as a reminder that history is often shaped by extraordinary individuals who defy expectations and forge their own paths towards freedom and independence.

Sharpe's Devil: Napoleon and South America, 1820-1821

by Bernard Cornwell(Kindle Edition)

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	557 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	323 pages

FREE

From New York Times bestselling author Bernard Cornwell, another exciting adventure in the world-renowned Sharpe series, chronicling the rise of Richard Sharpe, a Private in His Majesty’s Army at the siege of Seringapatam.

Five years after the Battle of Waterloo, Sharpe’s peaceful retirement in Normandy is shattered. An old friend, Don Blas Vivar, is missing in Chile, reported dead at rebel hands – a report his wife refuses to believe. She appeals to Sharpe to find out the truth.

Sharpe, along with Patrick Harper, find themselves bound for Chile via St. Helena, where they have a fateful meeting with the fallen Emperor Napoleon. Convinced that they are on their way to collect a corpse, neither man can imagine that dangers that await them in Chile…