Product Description

This title is a full account of the origins and course of the Franco-Prussian War. Covering the final agony for Napoleon III at Sedan, through the terrible months of the Commune and resistance of the new Republic, to the trial of Bazaine - a trial in which France was judging herself.

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #761744 in Books
• Published on: 2001-08-13
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 384 pages

Customer Reviews

God is not on the side of the big battalions
The battle of Mars-la-Tour is an odd one; as Napoleon III left the army at Metz he instructed it to retreat from the fortress so as to avoid being trapped there. Unfortunately the commanders on the spot seemed to feel Metz was a lot safer. When the German forces arrived they attacked with such splendid confidence that the French formed the not-unreasonable view that it was they (the French)that were outnumbered. Piece by piece the events of the day and small decisions honestly made conspired to trap France's best army. From there it was downhill to the loss of Alsace-Lorraine and the Great War.

David Ascoli's book is a masterly dissection of the events. I have read it many times and indeed designed a game using the main arguments he presents. Some readers will find the maps a little confusing; I did not, but I am in a minority.

Very much recommended.