Discovering the Fascinating Life of Corunna Christopher Hibbert

Corunna Christopher Hibbert was not your ordinary historian. With an insatiable thirst for knowledge and an unwavering commitment to research, he left an indelible mark on the world of historical literature. In this article, dive deep into the life and works of this enigmatic figure who dedicated his life to unraveling the secrets of the past.

A Passion for History Ignited

Born on March 5, 1924, in Leicestershire, England, Corunna Hibbert displayed an exceptional curiosity from childhood. It was this burning passion that led him on a lifelong journey into the annals of history. Whether it was ancient civilizations or modern conflicts, his hunger for knowledge was insatiable.

His academic pursuits took him to the University of Oxford, where he studied History. As he delved deeper into his studies, Hibbert's fascination with historical narratives grew stronger. His idol, the renowned historian A.J.P. Taylor, became a significant influence on his writing style and approach.

Corunna

by Christopher Hibbert(Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9156 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	268 pages

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Unraveling the Past Through Pen and Paper

After completing his studies, Hibbert embarked on a career as an author, captivating readers with his compelling storytelling. His first major success came with the publication of "The Destruction of Lord Raglan" in 1961. This acclaimed book shed light on the Crimean War and showcased Hibbert's meticulous research and engaging narrative style.

Over the years, Hibbert delved into various periods and regions of history, producing an impressive collection of biographies, social histories, and historical accounts. From the French Revolution to the Roman Empire, his works covered a wide range of topics, all brought to life with vivid descriptions and captivating storytelling.

Corunna Christopher Hibbert: A Literary Legacy

Hibbert's contributions to the field of historical literature cannot be overstated. His ability to transform complex historical events into relatable and gripping stories made him a beloved figure among readers of all ages. Whether it was his meticulously researched biographies or his captivating accounts of major battles, Hibbert had a way of transcending academic boundaries and appealing to a broader audience.

His literary achievements were recognized by prestigious organizations, earning him accolades such as the Heinemann Award for Literature in 1962 and the Norton Medlicott Medal for History in 1965. These accolades affirmed Hibbert's position as one of the most influential historians of his time.

The Man Behind the Pen

While Hibbert's works continue to captivate readers worldwide, he remained a private and enigmatic figure. Known for his reclusive nature and preference for solitude, he rarely made public appearances or granted interviews. This air of mystery only added to the allure surrounding his persona.

Corunna Christopher Hibbert passed away on December 21, 2008, leaving behind a rich and enduring literary legacy. His contributions to historical literature continue to inspire aspiring historians and avid readers alike, reminding us of the power of storytelling and the importance of understanding our past.

Corunna Christopher Hibbert's life and works serve as a reminder that history is not just a collection of dates and facts but a vibrant tapestry of individuals, events, and cultures. Through his captivating storytelling and meticulous research, Hibbert brought the past to life, providing valuable insights into the world we inhabit today.

As we commemorate the legacy of this enigmatic historian, let us continue to celebrate the importance of historical understanding and the power of literature to transport us across time and space.

Corunna

by Christopher Hibbert(Kindle Edition)

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	9156 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	268 pages

FREE

‘Not a drum was heard, not a funeral note,

As his corse to the rampart we hurried.’

—from ‘The Burial of Sir John Moore at Corunna’ by Charles Wolfe

One of the best remembered poems in the English language has served to keep alive the memory of Sir John Moore and of his burial at Corunna on 17 January, 1809. The story of the battle which he fought on the previous day and of the short campaign and horrifying retreat which preceded it is, however, not so well known.

The Battle of Corunna saved a British army from annihilation and resulted in the tragic death of one of England’s finest generals. Setting out from Lisbon in the autumn of 1808, Sir John Moore had marched his army into Spain against Napoleon and by a daring manoeuvre had thrown it across the line of French communications. But, having thus drawn off Napoleon’s army from Madrid, Moore found himself so outnumbered and with no hope of assistance from the ineffectual Spanish armies, that he decided to withdraw to the coast. After a 250-mile retreat across the mountains of Galicia under appalling weather conditions, with inadequate food supplies and the French hard on his heels, he eventually reached the port of Corunna. Here he turned and drew up his depleted forces to face Marshal Soult’s massive army; and, though mortally wounded in the ensuing battle, he lived long enough to learn that the French had been checked and that his own army would be able to embark in safety.

In Corunna extensive use is made of the many eyewitness accounts which survive in the form of official despatches, histories, diaries, memoirs and letters. With the aid of these, Christopher Hibbert not only shows a remarkable understanding of John Moore and his fellow officers, of their conflicting characters and views, but also provides a horrifying picture of the hardships of this brief and bitter campaign.