Napoleon’s Carabiniers

Ronald Pawly explores how these elite units covered themselves with glory at Austerlitz, Friedland, Ratisbonne and Wagram, alongside rare early prints and meticulous colour illustrations.

Carabiniers were the elite of the heavy horse, and fought in most of Napoleon's greatest battles from Austerlitz to Waterloo. This book incorporates research and striking illustrations to tell the story of these brave men and detail their uniforms and equipment.The two regiments of Carabiniers were reorganized in 1802 as part of Napoleon's cavalry reforms on taking the Consulate. They were the elite of the heavy horse, selected from the best men of the more numerous Cuirassier regiments and distinguished by tall bearskins. They fought in all Napoleon's early triumphs - Austerlitz, Friedland, Eckmuehl, Essling and Wagram. After this victorious campaign their dress was changed. They were issued cuirasses and helmets of brass, which were striking against their new white and sky-blue uniform. This book incorporates research and striking illustrations to tell the story of these brave men and detail their uniforms and equipment.