French Rule in the States of Parma, 1796-1814: Working with Napoleon

This book explores the interplay between collaboration and resistance during the Revolutionary/Napoleonic era in the Duchies of Parma, Piacenza, and Guastalla, highlighting local agency and how the population harnessed the power of the empire to shape the region's Napoleonic legacy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 285 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2023
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This captivating book delves into the intricate interplay between collaboration and resistance during the Revolutionary/Napoleonic era in the Duchies of Parma, Piacenza, and Guastalla, which were later renamed the States of Parma in 1802 and the Department of Taro in 1808. Initially perceived as a mere docile backwater in 1796, the region unexpectedly erupted in a violent rebellion at the end of 1805, causing astonishment not only among the French imperial establishment but also Napoleon himself. However, the French military swiftly put down the insurgency, preventing further confrontations.

Determined to showcase the empire's positive influence, French administrators embarked on a mission to foster cooperation among the local citizens. Recognizing the need for a realistic approach, they entered into protracted give-and-take arrangements, seeking to bridge the gap between the empire and the people. In recounting these events, this book sheds light on the remarkable agency of the local population, who harnessed the power of the empire to shape the region's destiny. It highlights the various ways in which Parma's population utilized the opportunities presented by the Napoleonic legacy to mold their own history and leave a lasting impact.

Weight: 394g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030973421
Edition number: 1st ed. 2022