The Age of Napoleon Podcast Episode 29: To the Victor Go the Spoils
Jul 3, 2018
The Army of Italy defeats Beaulieu, takes a detour to confront the Pope, and Napoleon is reunited with Josephine. Corruption in the army is discussed, as well as the campaign to strip Italy of its cultural and intellectual wealth. Napoleon prepares for a new opponent.
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Exploit Overstretched Defenses
- Napoleon exploited thinly held defensive lines by striking where forces were spread too far apart.
- Rapid concentration of superior numbers repeatedly defeated Austrian formations along the Minceo.
Napoleon's Narrow Escape At Borghetto
- At Borghetto Napoleon personally accompanied Kilmaine and nearly got captured during an Austrian cavalry counter-attack.
- He escaped by leaping garden walls and lost a boot in the chaotic retreat.
From Scouts To Imperial Guard
- The French lacked a formal protective unit around senior leadership and risked strategic disaster if Napoleon were captured.
- Napoleon created the 'Guides' as a covert bodyguard unit that later evolved into the Imperial Guard.