Renowned for its accuracy; brevity; and readability; this book has long been the gold standard of concise histories of the Napoleonic Wars. Now in an updated and revised edition; it is unique in its portrayal of one of the world's great generals as a scrambler who never had a plan; strategic or tactical; that did not break down or change of necessity in the field. Distinguished historian Owen Connelly argues that Napoleon was the master of the broken play; so confident of his ability to improvise; cover his own mistakes; and capitalize on those of the enemy that he repeatedly plunged his armies into uncertain; seemingly desperate situations; only to emerge victorious as he "blundered" to glory. Beginning with a sketch of Napoleon's early life; the book progresses to his command of artillery at Toulon and the "whiff of grapeshot" in Paris that netted him control of the Army of Italy; where his incredible performance catapulted him to fame. The author vividly traces Napoleon's campaigns as a general of the French Revolution and emperor of the French; knowledgeably analyzing each battle's successes and failures. The author depicts Napoleon's "art of war" as a system of engaging the enemy; waiting for him to make a mistake; improvising a plan on the spot-and winning. Far from detracting from Bonaparte's reputation; his blunders rather made him a great general; a "natural" who depended on his intuition and ability to read battlefields and his enemy to win. Exploring this neglected aspect of Napoleon's battlefield genius; Connelly at the same time offers stirring and complete accounts of all the Napoleonic campaigns.
#732188 in Books 2005-07-07Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.16 x .60 x 6.12l; .63 #File Name: 0742531155256 pages
Review
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. a great reminder of what I was taught in schoolBy KATHLEEN FINCHThis book is definately worth reading. The values and principles our country was founded on; a great reminder of what I was taught in school. And still believe today. I've passed my book to friends; now I decided I'll purchase them as gifts.0 of 0 people found the following review helpful. Mapp does a thumbnail sketch of the faith of the ...By G.S. FriesMapp does a thumbnail sketch of the faith of the "Founding Fathers;" with no real Evangelical emphasis or directive in the discourse. As he clearly states. To understand them; you would need to dig deeper in their lives. Nothing is mentioned about their Free Masonary leanings. However; most if not all were well versed in the Enlightenment readings and teachings of the 18th century. Where logic and science were more important; than religion or traditions; thus; they used religious language but did not necessarily adhere or follow those traditions. Somewhat disappointing. Not in the writing; but in the so called Christian Nation narrative.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. This one is a good textbook; minus the painBy Donald KidwellThis book is excellent and it is concise. It is the kind of read to which you will want to return.
