Napoleon Bonaparte campaigned through Europe in the 1800s, upending Europe until being defeated for the second time and final at the Battle of Waterloo. Since. 17.07.2022, Sputnik International
The silver-gilt cutlery, which is emblazoned with the General s initial N in a laurel wreath, as well as his Imperial arms and bee motif, sold at an auction in Salisbury, Wiltshire, for double its £5,000 estimate.
The silver-gilt cutlery, which is emblazoned with the General s initial N in a laurel wreath, as well as his Imperial arms and bee motif, sold at an auction in Salisbury, Wiltshire, for double its £5,000 estimate.
Published: 1
Solitary school days The compass a young Napoleon used to draw maps. This was his introduction to strategy. (Image by Alamy)
Napoleon’s school compass (above) is a reminder of the rudimentary beginnings of his career. Made from wood, copper and leather, it was his introduction to strategy, used in map drawing and fortification classes. Napoleon, who was born on 15 August 1769, attended École Royale Militaire in Brienne as a new member of the French nobility – his Corsican family were elevated in status after the country’s invasion by the French, as his father had swapped sides and supported the attackers. Fiercely patriotic of his Corsican heritage, Napoleon had a deep connection to home, writing to his mother: “I hasten to testify to you the love that inspires in me the kindness that you have had for us.”