Napoleon’s Mamelukes

When the French army returned home following defeat in Egypt in 1801, they brought along with them several locally hired units. Among these units were the Mameluke cavalry, whose exotic dress reflected Turkish style. Napoleon eventually established a Mameluke squadron for his personal guard, and they fought in all of Napoleon's major campaigns as part of the Mounted Chasseurs regiment of the Imperial Guard. Although the Turks were gradually replaced by Frenchmen, they retained their Turkish uniforms. This book explores the history of Napoleon's Mamelukes throughout the Napoleonic wars, and features detailed illustrations that enhance the story of this extraordinary unit.