Ernest Cuneo d'Ornano
This historical study examines the military career of Lazare Hoche, one of the most accomplished commanders of the French Revolutionary Wars. Organized into three parts—The Invasion, The Civil War, and Sambre-et-Meuse—the book traces Hoche’s leadership across both external campaigns against the Coalition powers and internal conflicts within Revolutionary France.
The first section explores the early invasions of Revolutionary France and Hoche’s emergence as a capable commander during the War of the First Coalition. The second examines his decisive role in suppressing the Royalist uprisings in the Vendée and Brittany, highlighting the political and military challenges of civil war. The final section focuses on Hoche’s command of the Army of Sambre-et-Meuse, detailing its operations along the Rhine during the campaigns of 1796–1797, including strategic planning, troop movements, and engagements against Austrian and German Coalition forces.
Drawing on historical records and military analysis, the author presents Hoche as a skilled strategist and reformer whose leadership contributed significantly to the success of the French Revolutionary armies. The work also places his campaigns within the broader context of the Revolutionary Wars, illustrating the transformation of the French army into an increasingly effective military force.
Combining biography with campaign history, this volume offers a detailed account of Hoche’s military achievements and the pivotal role he played in defending the French Republic during one of the most turbulent periods in European history.
