The Changing Nature of Warfare
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Questions and Answers

What was a significant impact of the Crimean War on public perception of warfare?

  • It normalized the realities of war for the public.
  • It led to a stronger support for military authorities.
  • It brought the death and destruction of warfare closer to the British public. (correct)
  • It decreased public interest in military conflicts.
  • What role did W.H. Russell play during the Crimean War?

  • He was an artist who documented the war through paintings.
  • He was the leader of the British troops in the Crimea.
  • He was a politician who supported military strategies.
  • He was a war correspondent whose reports criticized military authorities. (correct)
  • How did the media coverage of the Crimean War affect military reform?

  • Media coverage had no significant impact on military reforms.
  • It resulted in an increased budget for war operations.
  • The coverage compelled leaders to improve military conditions and tactics. (correct)
  • Public indifference led to military reforms being ignored.
  • What was a critical assessment made by W.H. Russell regarding the military leaders?

    <p>He blamed Raglan for many issues faced by the troops. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What misconception about public opinion during the Crimean War is highlighted?

    <p>The public was shocked by the realities of war and became critical of military conduct. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What tactic replaced complex encirclement manoeuvres in the French army?

    <p>Shock tactics (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What date corresponds to 13 Vendemiaire in the Revolutionary Calendar?

    <p>October 5, 1795 (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which military unit worked with Napoleon to repel the Royalists during the 13 Vendemiaire?

    <p>Cavalry (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many French troops were lost during Napoleon's campaign in Italy?

    <p>6,000 (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the priority for the French Army of Italy regarding supplies?

    <p>Distribution to other military forces (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant outcome of Napoleon's initial victories in Italy?

    <p>Confidence and acclaim for Napoleon (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many Allied troops were lost during the campaign in Italy?

    <p>25,000 (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What change occurred in infantry unit formation to counter enemy artillery?

    <p>Formation into smaller, deeper columns (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What significant change occurred in the French military organization during the transition to Total War?

    <p>Disbanding of regiments to form divisions (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which committee was responsible for coordinating France's war efforts during this period?

    <p>Committee for Public Safety (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role did Lazare Carnot play during this time?

    <p>Organizing the volunteer forces with regular military forces (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What industrial changes occurred in France to support the military?

    <p>Establishment of new arms factories (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a key factor in France's ability to replace military losses compared to its enemies?

    <p>Large population available for recruitment (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How many campaigns was the French Army engaged in by 1793?

    <p>Ten separate campaigns (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the approximate size of the French army at its peak during this period?

    <p>Nearly a million men (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements about the French military and society is true during this time?

    <p>Public resources were fully mobilized for the war effort (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What nickname was given to Napoleon for his leadership style?

    <p>The Little Corporal (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the main factors that contributed to Napoleon's popularity with his troops?

    <p>His ability to secure war fines for them (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What specific strategic goal did Napoleon prioritize in his military campaigns?

    <p>Rapid destruction of enemy forces (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which major campaign did Napoleon lead between 1798-1799 that ultimately faced significant challenges?

    <p>The Egyptian Campaign (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What significant political change did Napoleon implement upon his return to France in 1799?

    <p>Challenged the Directory and became First Consul (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did Napoleon's strategy differ from the maneuver strategies of the 18th century?

    <p>He emphasized sending large forces deep into enemy territory. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What innovative military structure did Napoleon introduce to improve his army's effectiveness?

    <p>The Corps d'armee system (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What key feature characterized each Corps in Napoleon's military structure?

    <p>Three infantry divisions, a cavalry brigade, and artillery (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the main reason for the swift victory of Prussia in military conflicts during the 19th century?

    <p>Prussian military reforms (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a significant advancement in weaponry for the Prussian forces?

    <p>The use of the Dreyse 'needle' gun (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor contributed to Prussia's logistical advantage in warfare?

    <p>The establishment of local military organization as Kreise (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the changes instituted by Moltke in the Prussian military?

    <p>Increase in active service duration from two years to three years (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the Prussian infantry perform in comparison to the Austrian infantry?

    <p>They were better trained and used modern tactics (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What economic strategy did Prussia employ to strengthen its military position?

    <p>Forming an economic union with North German states (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a disadvantage of the Austrian military during conflicts with Prussia?

    <p>Their reliance on outdated military tactics (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which military leader was NOT mentioned as a key figure in Prussia's military hierarchy?

    <p>Prince Eugen (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factor contributed to the French army's slow mobilization at the start of the war?

    <p>The lack of a general staff (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which weapon did the French invest in that was superior to the Prussian needle rifle?

    <p>Chassepot rifle (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the consequence of the French government's indecisive actions during the war?

    <p>They suffered significant losses at Sedan (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did Prussian artillery impact the French forces during the conflict?

    <p>It caused significant casualties with minimal infantry support (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What major strategic error did the French army make before Prussia retaliated?

    <p>Launching an uncoordinated attack into Prussia (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What event marked the beginning of the second phase of the war for France?

    <p>The establishment of the Government of National Defence (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which logistical issue hindered the French army before the 1870 war began?

    <p>Poor preparation and outdated weapons (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happened to Napoleon III and his troops at Sedan?

    <p>They were encircled and surrendered to the Prussians (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Total War in France

    The French government transformed public buildings into barracks and weapon factories, creating the largest arms production in Europe. This demonstrated a shift towards total mobilization for war, involving all aspects of society.

    From Regiments to Divisions

    The French military was drastically modernized, with regiments being replaced by divisions. These self-sufficient units, combining different branches of the military, allowed for greater flexibility and speed in combat.

    The Committee of Public Safety (CPS)

    The Committee of Public Safety (CPS) played a crucial role in coordinating the French war effort. Under Carnot's leadership, they implemented comprehensive measures like price controls and the nationalization of key industries, demonstrating the scale of their control.

    Political Indoctrination of the Army

    The CPS appointed political officers to oversee the troops' indoctrination, ensuring loyalty and reinforcing the revolutionary cause. These officers were precursors to the political commissars seen in the later Soviet Union.

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    Expansion of the French Army

    The French army underwent a massive expansion due to conscription, reaching nearly a million soldiers. This was possible due to France's large population and the use of untrained recruits who were quickly brought up to speed by experienced soldiers.

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    Rapid Training and Deployment

    The introduction of divisions and the 'training on the job' approach greatly contributed to the rapid growth and effectiveness of the French army. This approach allowed for a quick adaptation of inexperienced recruits while maintaining a large and potent force.

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    France's Population Advantage

    With a population second only to Russia, France could readily replenish its army despite heavy casualties. This enabled the French to engage in multiple campaigns simultaneously, showing their strength.

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    The Rise of a Modern French Army

    Despite initial setbacks, French military reorganization led to significant successes. The adoption of new units like divisions allowed for better coordination and adaptability, paving the way for future triumphs.

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    French Shock Tactics

    In 1795, French military tactics evolved to focus on rapid attacks with infantry columns called 'Shock Tactics'. This replaced complex encirclement manoeuvres.

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    French Infantry Columns

    French soldiers organized into columns of 50-80 men across and 12 deep. This provided a smaller target for enemy artillery.

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    Whiff of Grape Shot

    The 'Whiff of Grape Shot' refers to the use of artillery cannons in close-range engagements to inflict heavy casualties upon enemy infantry. This was a tactic employed by Napoleon in repelling Royalist insurgents during the 13 Vendémiaire.

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    13 Vendémiaire

    The 13 Vendémiaire (October 5, 1795) refers to a critical event in the French Revolution when Napoleon Bonaparte defended the National Convention and the Tuileries Palace from Royalist insurgents. It was a key turning point in Napoleon's rise to prominence.

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    Bonaparte's Strategy in Italy

    Napoleon aimed to exploit the strategic geography of the Apennines mountain range in northern Italy to outmaneuver opposing forces, aiming for the strategic location of Ceva.

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    Napoleon's Campaign in Italy

    Napoleon's campaign in Italy (1796-1797) involved a series of decisive victories against Austrian and Piedmontese forces, demonstrating strategic brilliance and securing key territories for France.

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    Battle of Lodi

    The Battle of Lodi in May 1796, a brilliant maneuver by Napoleon, led to a crucial French victory against the Austrians, solidifying their control over northern Italy.

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    Napoleon's Military Success in Italy

    These victories in Italy established Napoleon as a formidable military commander, gaining him widespread fame and recognition for his tactical genius.

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    Crimean War and Media

    The Crimean War was the first conflict widely reported by journalists, with reporters embedded in the battlefield and photographs captured, bringing the horrors of war directly to the British public.

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    Impact of Media on Warfare

    The Crimean War's media coverage exposed the harsh realities of war, leading to public criticism of military inefficiency and unnecessary deaths. This pressure led to reforms in military practices and increased public expectations of commanders.

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    Russell's Reporting and Impact

    War Correspondent William Howard Russell's reporting from the Crimean War was highly critical of military authorities, leading to public outrage and the collapse of the government. His reports highlighted the devastating conditions faced by soldiers, prompting public outcry and reforms.

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    Russell's Impact on Humanitarian Efforts

    Russell's reporting on the Crimean War exposed the harsh conditions faced by British soldiers, including starvation, lack of shelter, and disease. This public awareness sparked a wave of humanitarian efforts, leading to the establishment of organizations like the Nightingale Fund.

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    Criticisms of Russell's Reporting

    While Russell's reporting provided valuable information for the public, it also exposed sensitive information to the enemy, potentially compromising military operations.

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    Napoleon's Strategic Goal

    Napoleon's tactic of engaging the enemy in a decisive battle to quickly crush their forces and eliminate resistance.

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    What is a Corps d'armee?

    A large military unit composed of three infantry divisions, a cavalry brigade, and artillery guns, designed to operate independently or in coordination with other corps.

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    Napoleon's Strategy Against Maneuver Warfare

    Napoleon's strategy of deploying large forces deep within enemy territory to force them into combat and prevent avoidance.

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    Napoleon's Rise to Power in Italy

    Napoleon's rise to power was marked by his successful campaigns in Italy, which demonstrated his military brilliance and offered a potential solution to the instability of the French Directory.

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    Napoleon's Middle Eastern Campaign

    Napoleon's attempt to expand French influence in the Middle East by leading a campaign in Egypt from 1798 to 1799, but faced challenges due to logistical problems and the British navy's superior strength.

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    Coup du Brumaire

    The coup d'état staged by Napoleon in 1799 in France, where he overthrew the French Directory and established himself as First Consul, consolidating his power before crowning himself Emperor in 1804.

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    The Directory

    The French government during the years of the Revolution and Napoleon's rise to power.

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    The Little Corporal

    Napoleon's nickname, given to him for his willingness to fight alongside his troops, demonstrating his leadership and camaraderie.

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    Who was Otto von Bismarck?

    Prussia's political leader, responsible for implementing key reforms and unifying Germany.

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    Explain the Prussian Military Reforms.

    Prussia's military reforms, led by Moltke, focused on streamlining the reserve forces (Landwehr), increasing active service time, and improving training and discipline.

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    What was the key advantage of the Prussian weapon?

    Prussia's adoption of the Dreyse needle gun, providing a faster rate of fire compared to the Austrian muzzle-loading rifles, gave them a significant advantage in combat.

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    How did Prussian mobilization strategy contribute to their success?

    Prussia's ability to mobilize its army quickly and concentrate forces was crucial for their victories. They used a localized organizational structure called Kreise, allowing for efficient deployment.

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    Why did Prussia's economic strength contribute to its success?

    Prussia's economic union with other North German states provided crucial resources and financial support, bolstering their war effort.

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    What were the key international factors contributing to Prussian victory?

    Prussia's ability to keep other Great Powers neutral, secure Italy's alliance against Austria, and exploit Austria's involvement in a two-front war were key diplomatic triumphs.

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    Compare and contrast Prussian and Austrian infantry tactics.

    Prussian infantry tactics focused on small unit fire, maximizing the effectiveness of their needle gun, while Austrian tactics relied on outdated large formations, making them vulnerable.

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    How did Prussian artillery compare to Austrian artillery?

    Prussian artillery, though not as heavy as Austria's, was still considered breech loading, giving them an advantage in speed and flexibility.

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    French Military Preparedness in 1870

    The French military was not adequately prepared for war, lacking key investments and training in crucial areas despite attempts at modernization.

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    Lack of French General Staff

    The French army lacked a centralized command structure like the Prussian General Staff, leading to poor coordination and decision-making during the war.

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    French Investment in Artillery

    The French did not invest in breech-loading artillery adequately, despite its superior range and accuracy compared to the needle guns used by the Prussians.

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    French Use of Mitralleuse

    While the French possessed the Mitralleuse, an early form of machine gun, they did not train their soldiers extensively due to secrecy, preventing its maximum effectiveness.

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    Prussian Mobilization Speed

    Prussian forces were able to mobilize a vast army much faster than the French, largely due to their well-organized general staff and efficient logistical system.

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    Battle of Sedan

    In the Battle of Sedan, the Prussian army, led by Helmuth von Moltke, skillfully encircled and defeated the French army under Napoleon III, marking a decisive turning point in the war.

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    Role of Artillery in Sedan

    Prussian artillery played a crucial role in the Battle of Sedan, delivering devastating blows to the French forces, demonstrating the growing importance of artillery in modern warfare.

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    Consequences of Sedan

    Napoleon III was captured, and France's defeat at Sedan effectively shattered the Second French Empire, leading to the establishment of a new government and the continuation of the war.

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    Study Notes

    How to Structure Notes

    • Hypothesis: Outline the argument and explored themes
    • Main Body:
      • Theme 1
      • Theme 2
      • Theme 3
    • Conclusion: Judgement

    French Revolutionary Wars

    • A New Army
      • Prior to 1792, armies supported the absolute authority of European monarchs
      • The French Royal Army dissolved
      • Many officers, aristocrats, fled the Revolution/the 'Terror'
      • Some defected to Austrian and Prussian armies, fighting against the Revolution
      • Republican leaders distrusted the old Royal Army, removing the Royal prefix, and replacing it with National Guard volunteers
      • This ensured loyalty to the Revolution
      • Politically motivated, younger officers, ideologically aligned with the Revolution (e.g., Napoleon) rose to prominence
      • The Revolution declared willingness to aid those seeking liberty, making it an enemy of other monarchies
      • War with Austria and Prussia soon followed.
      • The French Army performed poorly at Valenciennes in April 1792, experiencing mass desertions and the lynching of their commander
      • Only sheer numbers and Revolutionary zeal saved the Revolution.
      • The Prussian Army was halted at the Battle of Valmy in September 1792.
      • French artillery reforms (standardised, more mobile, more accurate, grouped for concentrated fire) played a critical role in victory
    • A Nation in Arms
      • The French government implemented a policy of mass conscription, called the 'Levée en masse', in August 1793
      • This policy aimed to place all French citizens into the army
      • Young men were to fight, married men to forge arms, women to make tents, uniforms and support the army
      • Public buildings were converted into barracks and arms factories, and horses were requisitioned
      • The French Army swelled to almost a million men
      • A shift toward "Total War" occurred – the economy and society mobilised to support the army
      • The French government introduced price controls, requisitioned property and produce, and nationalised transport and industry
      • Twenty new sword and bayonet factories, and twelve new gun factories were established
      • Lazare Carnot coordinated the war effort for the Committee of Public Safety (CPS)
      • The volunteer forces were merged with the regular forces, creating more experienced soldiers, trained quickly, resulting in a faster training process for new soldiers.
      • 'Political Commissars' (forerunners) were appointed by the CPS, tasked with political indoctrination for the troops.
      • Divisions replaced regiments to provide more flexibility
      • France had a large population (around 30 million people)
    • Changes to Strategy
      • The large French armies and lack of training resulted in tactical changes
      • 'Shock Tactics' (charging enemy lines with bayonets) replaced large encirclement maneuvers
      • Infantry was organized into 50-80-man columns, in 12 men depth; these presented smaller targets to enemy artillery
      • Tactics like skirmishing and sniping were also employed (by 1795)
    • Napoleon
      • By 1795, growing public frustration with the Revolution and the Thermidorian Reaction (challenges to the CPS with the execution of Robespierre; Royalists insurrections) led Napoleon to be appointed to defend the National Convention and the Tuileries Palace against the Royalists
      • He used artillery ('whiff of grape shot') effectively in the defence of the Convention
      • His success brought fame, patronage, and command of the French Army of Italy.
      • The campaign in Italy was successful with lightning victories.
        • Victory against Piedmonts by April 1796
        • Losses were high for Allies, 25,000 Allied compared to 6000 French
        • Victories against Austrians at Lodi, Lonato, and Castiglione in 1796 to 1797
    • Innovation- The Corps
      • Napoleon built on Carnot's divisional system with the introduction of 'Corps d'armee' (army corps)
      • 3 infantry divisions, a cavalry brigade and 46 artillery guns
      • The increased size provided tactical flexibility and independent operations
      • Battle of Austerlitz (1805)
      • Demonstrated Napoleon's mastery of strategic movement
    • Battle of Marengo (1800)
      • French dominance over northern Italy was re-affirmed
      • Battle of Hohenlinden (1800)
    • Towards Defeat- Iberian Peninsula
      • War in the Iberian Peninsula (1808-1814) featured British forces and Spanish/Portuguese allies against French forces
      • British, aided by Spanish/Portuguese allies, held off superior French numbers and later drove them out of Spain.
        • They later invaded France
      • This costly conflict became known as the Spanish ulcer (a drain on French resources), contributing to Napoleonic downfall.
    • The Crimean War
      • Advancements in technology
        • Breech-loaded rifles (Minie bullet and rifling) made rifles more accurate and increased rate of fire.
        • Improved artillery (e.g., the Krupp C/64 field gun) enhanced range and accuracy.
      • Tactics
        • The era of cavalry charges ended, as they were no longer as effective against new weapons.
        • New tactical formations like the 'thin red line' were adopted.
    • The Civil War
      • The American Civil War (1861-1865)
        • Use of railways was important for troop and resource movement.
        • The adoption of new weapons (Gatling gun, Spencer repeating rifle) changed warfare.
        • Tactics and strategies changed, with the development of new infantry tactics and the rise of defensive strategies
        • Bushwhacking, a form of guerilla warfare, was prevalent in rural areas
    • The Austro-Prussian War
      • Prussia used reforms to achieve rapid mobilisation and a strong military and economy.
    • The Franco-Prussian War
      • 1870-71
      • New firearms like the Chassepot rifle and the Mitrailleuse had a significant impact on tactics.
      • The Mitrailleuse was an early machine gun, capable of rapid fire.
    • Total War
      • The increased scale of war during this period influenced artillery, which became much more important. Bombardment of cities became a frequent tactic causing significant damage.

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