NAPOLEON'S IMPERIAL GUARD: Organization, Uniforms and Weapons

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A detailed analysis of the organization, uniforms, and weapons of the French Imperial Guard created by Napoleon I. Describes how this large military body evolved from the Consular Guard created by Bonaparte as early as 1799 and came to include dozens of different military units belonging to each branch of service (infantry, cavalry, artillery, and specialist corps). The Imperial Guard was a 'miniature army' made up of veteran soldiers, who were dressed in spectacular and elegant uniforms. 50 color illustrations

The Guard also included several 'exotic' non-French units that are also covered in the text: Egyptian Mamelukes, Polish and Lithuanian lancers, Tatar scouts, Dutch grenadiers and lancers. The way in which Napoleon employed the Guard in battle is discussed and also how it differed from the rest of the French Army in terms of military dress and weaponry.