Marengo and Hohenlinden: Napoleon's Rise to Power

by James R. Arnold

In a tense, crowded thirty-three days in the autumn of 1799, Napoleon Bonaparte organized a coup and made himself dictator of France. Yet his position was precarious. He knew that France would accept his rule only if he gained military victories that brought peace.

James Arnold, in this detailed and compelling account, describes the extraordinary campaigns that followed.


At Marengo Bonaparte defeated the Austrians and his fellow general Jean Moreau beat the combined Austrian and Bavarian armies at Hohenlinden. These twin campaigns proved decisive. Bonaparte's dictatorship was secure and his enemies across Europe were forced into a 15-year struggle to overthrow him.

Genres: History, Military History, Nonfiction

312 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1990

Reviews

[Jim Pfluecke · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic book. This is a great template for writing about military history. It has the right amount of background on the participants (both national, soldiers and leaders) and the situation/politics. The campaign and battle narratives are superb, as are the maps and pictures. Did I mention pictures? They give the reader a great idea of why Fort Bard was such an obstacle as well as the feel of the land at Hohenlinden.

Finally, the narratives for both battles are the best and most detailed I have read, especially for Hohenlinden. Add to all of this great OOB, and you have a fine book.

[Heinz Reinhardt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Review forthcoming.

[Paithan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I got exactly what I wanted out of this book, but I have to say the author has a more of a knack for describing the interplay of politics (he does it quite well and concise) than for battle scenes. During the titular bang-ups I found myself getting lost in the constant interchange of musket fire. Perhaps that's the point, to be confused as one of the infantrymen?

I suggest that when you read the chapters focused on the actual battles get your own map and follow along.

Recommended.

[Stephen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very neat, very tidy, very clear. Written with flair & a good pace. Good treatment of neglected campaigns with good map linkage.