Napoleon's Line Infantry

Philip Haythornthwaite

Nov 2012 · Bloomsbury Publishing

About this ebook

Napoleon's line infantry was founded upon that of the Ancien Régime. A total re-organisation began on 1 January 1791 with the abolition of the old regimental titles, and over the next two years an increasing number of conscript and volunteer battalions were formed. Their quality varied from the proficiency of the early National Guard regiments to the untrained and ill-equipped rabble of the levée. To combine the discipline and steadiness of the regular army with the revolutionary fervour of the new army, the Amalgame was decreed on 21 February; by this measure each regular battalion became the nucleus of a new Demi-Brigade.

About the author

Stuart Reid was born in Aberdeen in 1954. His lifelong interest in military history has led to a longstanding involvement in historical re-enactment, which has broadened into work as a military advisor-cum-troop-instructor for film companies. His previous titles for Osprey include a three-volume work in the Men-at-Arms series on King George's Army 1740-1793 and Warrior 21 Highland Clansman 1689-1746.

Graham Turner was born in Harrow in 1964, the son of the respected aviation artist Michael Turner, with whom he also shares an interest in motorsport illustration. Graham has been a freelance artist since 1984; specialising in historical and military subjects, particularly of the medieval period, and has illustrated several Osprey titles including Campaign 44 Pavia 1525, Warrior 20 The British Redcoat (2) 1793-1815, Men-at-Arms 310 German Medieval Armies 1000-1300 and 320 Armies of the Caliphates 862-1098. He lives with his wife and two children in Buckinghamshire.