Military campaigns and expansion abroad

Question 1

Napoleon’s background

Answer 1

• Spent 5 years on a scholarship at a military academy
• 1793 : helped drive the British from Toulon
• Lost prominence and titles due to his friendship with Robespierres brother
• Took advantage of the Vendemiare rising and was appointed commander in chief

Question 2

The Italian campaign

Answer 2

• 1792-
• Successes in the Battle of Lodi (May 1796) , Acrola and Rivoli (Jan 1797) and the siege of Mantua
• Establishment of the client states after the battle of Lodi
• France dominated Italy and created a new French Republic
• Napoleon gained prestige

Question 3

Napoleon’s leadership and character

Answer 3

• Military genius and intelligent
• Speed and manoeuvrability were key to his success
• Small army 10,000-30,000men “marched divided, fight united”
• Forced march idea eg troops marched 80km in 36 hours which resulted in better battle positions
• Leadership also benefited from his personality : charismatic, disciplined and put in 18-20 hour days

Question 4

Egyptian campaign

Answer 4

• May 1798-May 1799
• 35,000 troops
• Took Malta and won the battle of the Pyramids but was cut off from France by Nelson
• Ventured North in to Syria and tok Jaffa in March 1799 but underestimated the strength of the British and the defenders
• Napoleon retreated in May

Question 5

Succeses

Answer 5

1. The Italian campaign : creation of 2 client states
2. 1796 : armistice of Cherasco (Sardinia withdrew from the first coalition and lesser territories were given to France)
3. Treaty of campo formio (Austria withdrew from the first coalition)
4. Pillaging / indemnities gave an economic boost

Question 6

Failures

Answer 6

1. Egyptian campaign
2. War of the second coalition 1799 : several invasions including Italy and French borders
3. Rhine campaign 1796 (forced to retreat)