Napoleon's Invasion of Egypt: An Eyewitness History

In July 1798, Napoleon invaded Egypt with an army, surprising both the Egyptians and his soldiers. The campaign promised neither fame nor wealth, but offered forced marches, battles, and the occupation of a land that fascinated and repelled them. Thousands of Frenchmen died in battle and disease, but Napoleon managed to turn the adventure into a triumph and become emperor. The campaign shook the Ottoman Empire and began Europe's love affair with Egypt.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 15 August 2023
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

In the scorching heat of a North African summer, in July 1798, Napoleon launched a daring invasion of Egypt, landing an army that caught both the Egyptians and the soldiers aboard his armada off guard. The soldiers, who had not been informed of the mission's objectives, which were to secure glory for their general and bring untold riches to their government, were taken aback by the unexpected turn of events. The campaign that followed promised neither fame nor wealth, but instead entailed arduous forced marches, relentless battles against formidable adversaries, and the occupation of a land that fascinated and repelled them in equal measure. Thousands of Frenchmen would perish in battle, and many more would succumb to disease, including the plague.

Despite the staggering cost in lives, Napoleon managed to turn this costly adventure into a resounding triumph. As a result, he ascended to the throne and became emperor. While the toll was high, the campaign had a profound impact on the Ottoman Empire and ignited a passionate love affair with Egypt in Europe.

In his captivating book, "Napoleon's Early 'Bartering of Lives for Glory," Jonathan North presents an astonishing account of this exotic campaign, drawing upon the words of the soldiers, scholars, and artists who participated in it. Through their firsthand experiences and observations, North sheds light on the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of the French soldiers as they ventured into the unknown, facing formidable foes and navigating the complexities of a foreign land.

The invasion of Egypt marked a significant turning point in Napoleon's career, as it showcased his strategic brilliance and determination to conquer new territories. It also demonstrated his willingness to take risks and gamble with the lives of his soldiers in pursuit of his grand ambitions. The campaign, though costly in terms of human lives, left a lasting legacy, shaping the course of European history and influencing the development of Egypt as a nation.

In conclusion, Napoleon's invasion of Egypt in 1798 was a remarkable chapter in history, marked by unexpected twists, fierce battles, and a profound impact on the world. Through the words of the soldiers and the scholars who documented the campaign, Jonathan North has provided a captivating account of this extraordinary adventure, shedding light on the trials and tribulations of the French soldiers and the enduring legacy of their conquest.

Weight: 632g
Dimension: 168 x 245 x 36 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398110311