Synopses & Reviews
Written by experts for non-experts, this accessible and informed book about the Battle of Austerlitz, one of Napoleon's greatest victoriesAt the end of November 1805, Napoleon decided to launch one more plan to lure the Austrians and Russians into battle by appearing to order his forces to retreat and letting it be known that he did not want to face his enemies on the field. Eventually, the Allies fell for his plan and decided to attack what they saw as a weakening force, just outside the town of Austerlitz. Napoleon was weaker in numbers, but had had time to plan and examine the battlefield closely. He had his enemies where he wanted them. It was a fiercely contested battle, but Napoleon had the upper hand and destroyed a third of the Russian-Austrian force, with 15,000 casualties and 12,000 prisoners. In comparison, he had only lost 8,000 men. He was victorious and regarded it as one of his greatest triumphs, paving the way for French dominance in Europe for the next decade.
Synopsis
In August 1805, Napoleon abandoned his plans for the invasion of Britain and diverted his army to the Danube valley to confront Austrian and Russian forces in a bid for control of central Europe. The campaign culminated with the Battle of Austerlitz, regarded by many as Napoleon's greatest triumph, whose far-reaching effects paved the way for French hegemony on the Continent for the next decade. To understand what happened and why - read Battle Story. Detailed profiles explore the leaders, tactics and weaponry of the French, Austrian and Russian forces which clashed at Austerlitz. Maps examine the positions of the opposing forces at critical points in the action. Contemporary images place the reader at the forefront of the unfolding action. Orders of battle show the composition of the opposing forces' armies. Packed with fact boxes, this short introduction is the perfect way to explore this important battle.
About the Author
Gregory Fremont-Barnes is the author of The Boer War 1899-1902, Napoleon Bonaparte, and The Wars of the Barbary Pirates.