This isn't your average history book. Historia del levantamiento, guerra y revolución de España is the first-hand account of the Peninsular War (1808-1814) against Napoleon, written by José María Queipo de Llano, the Conde de Toreno. He wasn't just an observer; he was a key player in the Spanish resistance and later in the turbulent politics that followed.

The Story

Toreno walks us through the explosive start of the war: the popular uprising in Madrid, the formation of local rebel juntas, and the bloody guerrilla conflict that bled the French army. He then details the creation of a new, liberal Spanish government in Cádiz and the drafting of a radical constitution in 1812. The story is about a nation fighting for its life while simultaneously arguing fiercely about what that nation should become.

Why You Should Read It

You read this for the perspective. Toreno's writing is charged with the passion and frustration of someone who lived it. He names names, argues about decisions, and lets you feel the high stakes of every political battle. It pulls the curtain back on how history is made in real-time—through chaos, compromise, and conflict. It’s a powerful reminder that the people in history books were just that: people, trying to steer a country through its darkest hour.

Final Verdict

Perfect for readers who love primary sources and want to feel the heat of history. It's a must for anyone interested in the Napoleonic Wars, Spanish history, or the messy birth of modern nations. Be prepared for a dense, opinionated, and utterly fascinating ride. This is history with the gloves off.