Details the life and times of an intriguing historical figure, Napoleon Bonaparte, his rise to military power and highs and lows of a colourful life at a time of great social upheaval in Europe. Episode 1. “To destiny” - Recounts the story of Napoleon’s extraordinary rise from the obscurity of his Corsican childhood to famous victories in Italy. Also tells of his love for Josephine Beauharnais. Episode 2. “Mastering luck” - Charts Napoleon’s ascent to absolute power from victorious General to first Consol to Emperor of France. Episode 3. “The Summit of ambition” - Traces Napoleon’s conquest of most of Europe including the Battle of Austerlitz and an ambitious invasion of Spain. Episode 4. “The End” - Describes Napoleon’s downfall, including the invasion and subsequent retreat from Russia, his time in exile and his defeat at Waterloo. Fascinating work features historical documentation, stills and re-enactments, as well as interviews with contemporary scholars. Narrated by David McCullough. In English and French with occasional English subtitles.
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How to watch
Collection
In ACMI's collection
Credits
Collection metadata
ACMI Identifier
318455
Language
English
Audience classification
Exempt
Subject categories
Armed Forces, Military, War & Weapons → Battles
Armed Forces, Military, War & Weapons → Military history
Armed Forces, Military, War & Weapons → Napoleon I, Emperor of the French, 1769-1821
Armed Forces, Military, War & Weapons → Napoleonic Wars, 1800-1815
Armed Forces, Military, War & Weapons → Soldiers
Documentary → Documentary films - United States
History → Europe - History - 1789-1900
History → Europe - History - 18th century
History → France - History - 19th century
History → France - History - Revolution, 1789-1799
History → Napoleon I, Emperor of the French, 1769-1821
People → Napoleon I, Emperor of the French, 1769-1821
Television → Television programs
Television → Television programs → Television programs - United States
Sound/audio
Sound
Colour
Colour
Holdings
VHS; Access Print (Section 1)