Lecture Notes: The Battle of Marengo and Its Aftermath

Introduction

• Date: June 13-14, 1800
• Key Figure: Napoleon Bonaparte, First Consul of France
• Event: Napoleon’s bold march over the Alps to arrive behind the Austrian army in Italy.

Prelude to Battle

• Napoleon captured Milan and defeated enemy forces.
• Forces spread to prevent Austrian escape:
  • General Chabran: 3,400 men at River Po
  • General Lapoype: 3,500 men
  • General Desaix: 5,000 men south to block Genoa
• Napoleon with 22,000 men advancing on Scrivia plains.

Austrian Counter-Plan

• Austrian General Melas has 30,000 veteran troops near Alessandria.
• Austrian forces are ready to attack, contrary to Napoleon’s expectations.

Battle of Marengo

June 13

• General Victor leads French advance in heavy rain.
• Austrians hold a fortified position at Bormida River.
• French halt pursuit, expecting a lack of Austrian aggression.

June 14: Morning

• French forces spread over 8 miles; Victor’s division faces Austrian attack.
• Austrians begin a two-pronged assault:
  • General Ott towards Castel Ceriolo
  • Main force under Melas up main road.
• French defenses at Fontanone stream initially hold despite Austrian bombardment.

Critical Noon

• Austrians have 30,000 men, 92 guns; French 16,000 men, 16 guns.
• Austrian attack threatens French center and right flank.
• General Ott captures Castel Ceriolo, threatening French flank.
• French running low on ammunition and begin retreat.

Napoleon’s Response

• Napoleon learns of battle developments late; orders reinforcements.
• With few reserves, Napoleon races to the front.
• Consular Guard and Monnier’s division are deployed.

Afternoon Counterattack and Desaix’s Arrival

• Desaix, returning from the south, arrives at 5 pm.
• Napoleon plans a counterattack with fresh troops and artillery.
• Desaix is killed but his troops' momentum turns the battle.
• French counterattack succeeds, capturing General Zach and routing Austrians.

Aftermath and Consequences

• French victory despite initial defeat.
• French casualties: 25%; Austrian: 33%
• Melas, forced to retreat, negotiates an armistice.
• French dominance in Italy is solidified.
• Napoleon’s reputation and position strengthened.

Broader Impact

• Battle of Hohenlinden further secures French victory over Austria.
• Treaty of Lunéville expands French territory to the River Rhine.
• France recognized as dominant in Northern Italy.
• Temporary peace with Great Britain.

Conclusion

• Battle of Marengo showcases French resilience and strategic prowess.
• Napoleon’s leadership and the fortuitous arrival of Desaix pivotal to victory.

Additional Information

• "Campaign Marengo" wargame offers an immersive experience of the battle.
• Discount available for Epic History viewers.
• Game includes a scenario editor, multiple battles, and challenges.

Acknowledgments

• Osprey Publishing for imagery.
• Patreon supporters for content support.

• Engage with 'Campaign Marengo' to test your strategies as a Napoleonic commander.
• Visit wargameds.com for more historical strategy games.
• Explore more battles and scenarios through the game’s extensive catalogue.