Napoleon's Military Machine

This book presents an analysis of how Napoleon turned the ragged armies of the French Revolutionary Wars into the most efficient and professional military body in Europe at the time. All aspects of his forces are covered: their composition, appearance, weaponry and capabilities, how they marched, fought and died for their Emperor. Haythornthwaite brings his reputation as a leading Napoleonic historian to bear on the examination of all parts of the French army, the cavalry, infantry, artillery, Imperial Guard, staff and supporting services. Napoleon’s tactics are described, his innovations analyzed, and his campaigns reviewed, from battles in Italy to Austerlitz and the final act at Waterloo, demonstrating the reasons for his success and the causes of his later decline.

Philip J. Haythornthwaite is a leading authority on the military history of 19th-century Europe, and the author of over 30 books, notably The Napoleonic Source Book, The Armies of Wellington and Wellington’s Military Machine.