Osprey Men-at-Arms 45 : Napoleon's Polish Troops

In 1795 the Kingdom of Poland fell prey to her stronger neighbours, Russia, Prussia and Austria. Following the death of the King of Poland in 1798, his kingdom was divided among these three neighbouring powers. France became increasingly involved, and protested at Poland's treatment, offering refuge for Polish exiles. On 11 October 1796 the Polish Legion was formed in the French army by General Dombrowski and Napoleon. This book covers the uniforms, dress, organisation and equipment of the infantry, artillery, and cavalry of Napoleon's Polish Troops. Among the cavalry units covered are the Chasseurs and Lancers. There is also provided a summary of the Polish divisions' campaigns in Spain, Russia and within Poland itself. Text by Otto von Pivka with illustrations by Michael Roffe.

Contents

• Introduction
• The Grand Duchy of Warsaw
• The Poles in Spain
• In Poland 1809
• Russia 1812
• The Last Act
• Uniforms
• Colour Plate Commentary