Fighting for Napoleon's Army in Russia: A POW's Memoir

In 1812, Napoleon led a French army into Russia, including Carel Jacob Wagevier, an officer in the 125th Regiment of the Line. Wagevier was captured and endured harsh conditions, including cold, combat, and hunger, before being released in 1814. His memoirs, translated into English for the first time, provide a unique insight into the life of a solider in Napoleon's army.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 30 June 2023
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

In 1812, the French emperor Napoleon embarked on a daring invasion of Russia, assembling an army of half a million men and women from diverse nationalities, including French, German, and Italian soldiers. Among them was Carel Jacob Wagevier, an officer serving in the 125th Regiment of the Line, primarily composed of Dutch troops. With unwavering confidence, they set off on a perilous journey to the East, facing the harsh realities of war.

The expedition unfolded as a grueling trek deep into the Russian interior, marked by chaos, retreat, and captivity. Wagevier, like his fellow soldiers, endured freezing temperatures, the strains of combat, and the relentless hunger that plagued the army. After participating in the pivotal battle of Berezina in November 1812, he found himself captured and transported to the Russian interior.

In 1814, Wagevier and his remaining fellow officers were finally released, beginning the long journey back home. During his travels across Russia, he meticulously recorded events and meetings, capturing both the unexpected generosity and sudden cruelty he encountered. These notes, later expanded into his memoir, were published in 1820.

Now, for the first time, these remarkable memoirs have been translated into English, offering a unique and captivating glimpse into the life of a solider in Napoleon's army. Wagevier's experiences shed light on the hardships, challenges, and triumphs of those who served during this pivotal period in history, providing a valuable perspective on the complexities of warfare and the human cost of conflict.

Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399089753