Battle of the Bridge of Arcole

The Battle of the Bridge of Arcole (Bataille du Pont d'Arcole in French), occurred on November 17, 1796. The battle was the culmination of a manoeuver game between the 19 000 man strong French army led by general Napoleon Bonaparte, and the 24 000 man strong Austrian army, led by general Alvinczy.

Related Topics:
French - November 17 - 1796 - Napoleon Bonaparte - General Alvinczy

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The battle was concluded with a feint and a furious charge over the bridge of Arcole. Young Bonaparte personally led his troops across the bridge.

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The event on the bridge was depicted in a famous painting by Horace Vernet where Bonaparte can be seen holding a battered flag valiantly leading his troops across the bridge; however, in reality, a French military officer feared for his leader's safety, and pushed him into the river. Bonaparte almost drawn in this event.

Related Topics:
Horace Vernet - French

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The day was to the French, and enabled them to retain control of Nothern Italy.

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