Napoleon's Bold Maneuver Across the Alps (1800)

Background

• Date: 13th June 1800
• Napoleon Bonaparte: First Consul of France
• Strategy: Moved army over the Alps to surprise Austrian forces in Italy
• Initial Success: Captured Milan, defeated enemy forces

French Army Deployment

• General Chabran: Guards River Po with 3,400 men
• General Lapoype: Sent to reinforce Chabran with 3,500 men
• General Desaix: Moves south with 5,000 men to block road to Genoa
• Napoleon's main force: 22,000 men advancing towards Scrivia plains

Misjudgment and Austrian Strategy

• Misleading Reports: Scouts report Melas planning retreat
• Reality: Melas with 30,000 troops near Alessandria preparing to attack
• Austrian Advantages: Superiority in cavalry and artillery

Battle of Marengo

June 13th

• French Advance: Led by General Victor, initial success at Marengo
• Austrian Defense: Strong defense at Bormida River
• Napoleon’s Misconception: Predicts decisive battle but underestimates Melas

June 14th

• Morning Attack: Austrians launch assault on French positions
• French Defense: Victor and Lannes hold positions along Fontanone stream
• Austrian Setbacks: Slow progress due to narrow crossings
• Critical Situation: French outnumbered and in need of reinforcements

Afternoon Developments

• Napoleon’s Realization: Urgent need for reinforcements
• Desaix’s Arrival: Arrives late but crucial for French morale
• French Retreat: Initial withdrawal to reorganize
• Desaix Counterattack: Leads final charge before being killed

Turning Point

• French Counterattack: Supported by artillery and cavalry
• Austrian Collapse: Panic and confusion lead to French victory
• General Zach Captured: Austrian command structures collapse

Aftermath and Significance

• Casualties: Heavy losses on both sides
• Napoleon’s Reflection: Victory marred by Desaix's death
• Strategic Outcome: French control re-established in Northern Italy

Historical Context

• Subsequent Battles: Moreau's victory at Hohenlinden
• Treaty of Lunéville: Expands French territory
• Peace with Britain: Temporary resolution of conflicts

Campaign Marengo: Wargame

• Wargame Design Studio: Offers a game to reenact the battle
• Gameplay Features:
  • Hex-based strategy game
  • Includes 24 unique battlefields and various scenarios
  • Available at a discount for Epic History viewers

Additional Acknowledgements

• Osprey Publishing: Permission for image use
• Patreon Supporters: Essential for channel's operation

This lecture overview provides a comprehensive summary of the strategic maneuvers and key events leading to the Battle of Marengo, highlighting Napoleon’s tactical oversight, the crucial role of reinforcements, and the ultimate French comeback.