The Life of a General in Napoleon's Light Cavalry: The Memoirs of Jean-Nicolas Cur ly

Jean-Nicolas Curly's memoirs provide a unique and detailed insight into the day-to-day life of the light cavalry during the Napoleonic Wars. Born in 1774, he rose through the ranks to become a General in Napoleon's Light Cavalry. Despite not fighting in many famous battles, he took part in all Napoleon's great campaigns and served as an aide de camp to many famous generals. His memoirs describe his actions, scrapes, and efforts to care for his men and horses.

Format: Hardback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 04 August 2023
Publisher: Pen & Sword Books Ltd

Jean-Nicolas Curly, born in 1774, was a remarkable individual who rose from humble beginnings to become a General in Napoleon's Light Cavalry. Despite not participating in many of the most renowned battles of the First Republic and the Napoleonic Wars, Curly's role as a light cavalry scout was crucial. His duties included scouting ahead of the army, conducting reconnaissance to the flanks, and launching raids. Despite this, Curly played a significant part in all of Napoleon's great campaigns, including Austerlitz, Heilsberg, Essling, Raab, Wagram, Beresina, Wachau, Leipzig, Craonne, and Laon. He served as an aide de camp to numerous renowned light cavalry generals, providing valuable insights into the day-to-day life of the light cavalry.

Curly's memoirs offer a unique and detailed perspective, as he recounts his journey from being a hussar at the age of 19 to achieving the rank of General at 40. His career saw him progress through the ranks quickly, becoming a second lieutenant at 32, a squadron commander at 35, a Colonel at 38, and a General at 40. He was honored with the Cavalier of the Legion of Honor in 1806 and sustained five wounds during his service.

Curly's account vividly describes the many actions he was involved in, including battles, skirmishes, and retreats. He showcases his exceptional leadership and bravery, often leading his men through difficult situations with unwavering determination. His narrative also highlights his concern for the welfare of his men and horses, particularly during the retreat from Moscow, where he managed to survive with a hundred men and nearly all his officers still battleworthy.

The book spans from Curly's enrolment with the Hussars in 1793 to the capitulation of Paris and the disbandment of the army after Waterloo. It is a valuable resource for anyone with an interest in the Napoleonic Wars, providing a comprehensive and insightful account of the era. Curly's memoirs offer a glimpse into the lives of the soldiers and horses who served during this tumultuous period, and his achievements as a General are a testament to his resilience and determination.

Weight: 456g
Dimension: 241 x 164 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781399065863