Alexander Mikaberidze Livres

"The first modern English-language biography of Mikhail Golenischev-Kutuzov, the famed Russian Field Marshal and central character of Leo Tolstoy's epic "War and Peace." One of the most important military minds of the period, he is credited with defeating Napoleon and saving Russia, though his fame is not limited to the Napoleonic wars. As it often happens with national heroes, Kutuzov gradually became larger than life, a messianic character who led Holy Russia against the evils of the Revolution and anarchy; the Soviet leaders later exploited his personality for even more grandiose schemes. The real Kutuzov was gradually replaced by a mythical character who appeared at a time of great danger to save Russia. The impact of this propaganda can be still seen in modern Russia: In 2000, the public opinion poll showed that majority of the Russians consider Kutuzov as "the Person of the 19th Century," far ahead of famous writers Alexander Pushkin and Leo Tolstoy, composer Peter Tchaikovsky or scientist Dmitry Mendeleyev, while the 2017 public opinion poll placed Kutuzov in the top twenty of the most distinguished historical personalities in world history (slightly behind Napoleon). As much as Kutuzov is venerated in Russia, he remains an overlooked figure in the West, with Western historiography comprising of just a handful of titles in English, French or German, the vast majority of them translations of older Soviet works or derived from them. This book provides a new biography of the field marshal, examining his personal life and military/diplomatic accomplishments, and relying on a wide range of primary and secondary sources as well as Russian archival material. Mikaberidze offers a fresh look at the historical figure whose character remains elusive but whose accomplishments are irrefutable."-- Publisher's website

The first truly global history of the Napoleonic Wars, arguably the first world war.

The memoirs of Moritz von Kotzebue provide a captivating account of his experiences during his year and a half in French captivity after being captured at Polotsk in 1812. As the son of renowned playwright August von Kotzebue, he offers vivid and occasionally witty descriptions of his journey through Germany and France, revealing the challenges and observations of life as a prisoner. His unique perspective enriches the narrative, making it an engaging read for those interested in personal histories from this tumultuous period.

A superbly illustrated narrative of how Napoleon skilfully extracted his Grande Armee from the clutches of the pursuing Russian armies.Much has been written about the Battle of the Berezina and the 1812 Russian campaign in general, during which the cold winter devastated the Grande Armée. Historians often praise Napoleon for his actions at the Berezina and attribute his success to a brilliant strategic mind, laying a trap that deceived the Russians and resulted in a remarkable feat in the history of warfare. Drawing on contemporary sources (letters, diaries, memoirs), and featuring an extensive order of battle, this book recreates in hourly detail one of the great escapes in military history, a story often told with embellishments that require a more critical examination. Although the core of Napoleon's army escaped, tens of thousands were killed in the battle, trampled in the rush for the bridge, drowned in the icy waters of the Berezina, or captured. Written by an acknowledged expert on the period, and using a broad range of sources from all sides, this title brings to life in stunning visual detail, using maps, battlescene artworks and period illustrations, the events of late November 1812, as Napoleon's retreating, desperate Grand Armée extricated itself from the clutches of the Russian armies under Kutuzov, Wittgenstein and Chichagov in an epic feat of heroism and masterful tactics.

First-hand accounts from Russian archives, never before published in English. Provides fresh insight into the great battles of Eylau and Friedland. Prequel to the author's previous volumes on the campaigns of 1812 and 1814.

In the winter of 1812, Napoleon's army retreated from Moscow under appalling conditions, hunted by three separate Russian armies, its chances of survival apparently nil. By late November Napoleon had reached the banks of the River Berezina - the last natural obstacle between his army and the safety of the Polish frontier. But instead of finding the river frozen solid enough to march his men across, an unseasonable thaw had turned the Berezina into an icy torrent. Having already ordered the burning of his bridging equipment, Napoleon's predicament was serious enough: but with the army of Admiral Chichagov holding the opposite bank, and those of Kutusov and Wittgenstein closing fast, it was critical. Only a miracle could save him ... In a gripping narrative Alexander Mikaberidze describes how Napoleon rose from the pit of despair to the peak of his powers in order to achieve that miracle. Drawing on contemporary sources - letters, diaries, memoirs - he recreates one of the greatest escapes in military history - a story often half-told in general histories of the Russian campaign but never before fully explored.242 pages of narrative, 284 pages in total

On 7 September 1812 at Borodino, 75 miles west of Moscow, the armies of the Russian and French empires clashed in one of the climactic battles of the Napoleonic Wars. This horrific - and controversial - contest has fascinated historians ever since. The survival of the Russian army after Borodino was a key factor in Napoleon's eventual defeat and the utter destruction of the French army of 1812. In this thought-provoking new study, Napoleonic historian Alexander Mikaberidze reconsiders the 1812 campaign and retells the terrible story of the Borodino battle as it was seen from the Russian point of view. His original and painstakingly researched investigation of this critical episode in Napoleon's invasion of Russia provides the reader with a fresh perspective on the battle and a broader understanding of the underlying reasons for the eventual Russian triumph.

First-hand accounts from Russian archives, never before published in English Fresh insight into the campaign of 1814 that finally overthrew Napoleon Follow-up volume to Russian Eyewitness Accounts of the Campaign of 1812

Featuring a comprehensive approach to Georgia's history, this reference work includes a chronology, glossary, and over 900 cross-referenced entries covering key figures, locations, events, and institutions. It delves into significant political, economic, social, and cultural aspects, making it an invaluable resource for students, researchers, and anyone interested in understanding the state's past and its future trajectory. The inclusion of maps and a bibliography further enhances its utility as a guide to Georgia's rich history.

Colonel Nicolas Tokhadze's life story is a remarkable journey from Georgia to France, shaped by the turmoil of the Bolshevik occupation. After immigrating in 1921, he joined the French Foreign Legion, where he earned a distinguished reputation in Morocco. His bravery during World War II, particularly in the 1945 retreat from Indochina, showcased his leadership and valor. Rising to the rank of colonel, Tokhadze became the highest-ranked Georgian officer in the French army, receiving the prestigious Legion d'Honneur for his service.