by Henry Bourdeau
H. Charles-Lavauzelle, Paris, 1909
A landmark study of the French Armies of the Sambre-et-Meuse and the Rhine-et-Moselle during the opening years of the Directory, this work examines the political, military, and administrative conditions that shaped the armies before the celebrated 1796 campaign in Germany. Written by Captain Henry Bourdeau and published under the direction of the Historical Section of the French Army General Staff, the volume serves as an essential introduction to the Rhine campaigns of the French Revolutionary Wars.
Bourdeau provides a detailed analysis of the strategic situation following the Peace of Basel, the organization and strength of the two Rhine armies, their recruitment, leadership, logistics, supply system, finances, equipment, and overall state of morale. Drawing extensively upon official military archives, correspondence, reports, and administrative records, he explains the severe material shortages, administrative challenges, and political influences that affected the French armies while demonstrating how they nevertheless developed into highly effective fighting forces under commanders such as Moreau and Jourdan.
Rather than presenting a campaign narrative, the book focuses on the internal condition of the armies—their manpower, organization, discipline, provisioning, and command structure—providing the essential background needed to understand the military operations of 1796. It remains one of the most valuable studies of the French Revolutionary armies during the Directory and offers exceptional insight into the foundations of France's military successes on the Rhine.
