Last stand

Last stand is a loose military term used to describe a body of troops holding a defensive position in the face of overwhelming odds. The defensive force usually takes very heavy casualties or is completely destroyed, while also inflicting high casualties on the opponent. Except in rare exceptions, such as Rorke's Drift and the Battle of Longewala, the defending force is usually annihilated.

The situation can arise in one of two ways. Sometimes, perhaps because of geography or lack of supplies or support, the troops in question cannot retreat from their position without being instantly destroyed by the enemy. At other times, the troops in question are forced to follow orders and cannot consider retreat, even though the moral choice is open to them. In both cases, surrender to the enemy is an option, but either the group as a whole or their commanding officer decides instead to "go down fighting". In some cases the soldiers may consider that surrender may also result in their deaths, and that to fight to their deaths is a better choice in the circumstances. This sometimes comes from strategic or moral considerations, as the defenders conclude that their own sacrifice is essential to the wider success, or at least survival, of their campaign.

A siege will often lead to a last stand by the defenders of the besieged city. However, while sieges are generally characterised by a lengthy engagement, last stands are generally brief and decisive.

480 BC - 1000 AD

1870 - 1930

See also

* Lost cause
* Suicide attack
* Forlorn hope

References