Flying Squirrel Entertainment

The Lounge => Historical Discussion => Topic started by: TWking on November 13, 2013, 11:47:36 pm

Title: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: TWking on November 13, 2013, 11:47:36 pm
All in the title really, ask a question about history so some of you forumers here who have an Uber knowledge on the subject can answer.
Preferably short questions(and already googled).

Ill start off.
My friend who has recently picked up on the subject of the Napoleonic Wars and he asked me did "many of the marshals survived the war and who?"
Now i didn't know myself so i googled it and found very little. So my question did many of Napoleon's marshals survive the NWs(and who) and don't tell me about the Ney living theory(whilst interesting it doesn't really help me)
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Walko on November 14, 2013, 04:17:01 pm
An interesting question! I have no idea :P don't know much about the French, although I think that at least one marshal survived and became a king of a country?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Duuring on November 14, 2013, 04:32:55 pm
That's Bernadotte.

Just find the list of Napoleons marshals (Wikipedia) and go by them one by one. Won't cost you that much time.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: TWking on November 14, 2013, 04:36:41 pm
Quote from: Duuring on November 14, 2013, 04:32:55 pm
That's Bernadotte.

Just find the list of Napoleons marshals (Wikipedia) and go by them one by one. Won't cost you that much time.

Didnt think of that *face palm*
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Desert Thunda on November 14, 2013, 05:23:12 pm
What if we do not trust Wikipedia.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Nipplestockings on November 14, 2013, 05:25:07 pm
Quote from: Desert Thunda on November 14, 2013, 05:23:12 pm
What if we do not trust Wikipedia.

Wikipedia is entirely trustworthy. If you don't trust it then at the very least look at the bibliography instead of dismissing it entirely. 
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on September 21, 2015, 10:40:40 pm
Bumping this because I don't want to make a separate thread for a question.

Anyways, this isn't really a history question, but who are these painted by? There is paintings of Prussian soldiers and I'm using one for my avatar but who made them? Some examples:

(https://i.imgur.com/ldlCcI2.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/qvy9WQb.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/7SXCYX6.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/TiVXEoF.jpg)
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Nipplestockings on September 21, 2015, 10:44:42 pm
Edouard Detaille
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on September 21, 2015, 10:46:14 pm
Quote from: Nipplestockings on September 21, 2015, 10:44:42 pm
Edouard Detaille

Edourd Detaille, I bet he puts a lot of detaille into his paintings.  :P

Are you sure it's him though? I can't find his paintings?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Frederik on September 21, 2015, 10:48:25 pm
no, its the younger knötel, these are pictures you could collect, they were in pack of cigaretts of the firma sturm.
google Sturm Zigarettenbilder Knötel.
or click on this link http://www.grosser-generalstab.de/sturm/sturm20.html
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on September 21, 2015, 10:49:58 pm
Quote from: Frederik on September 21, 2015, 10:48:25 pm
no, its the younger knötel, these are pictures you could collect, they were in pack of cigaretts of the firma sturm.
google Sturm Zigarettenbilder Knötel.
or click on this link http://www.grosser-generalstab.de/sturm/sturm20.html

Thank you.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Nipplestockings on September 21, 2015, 10:53:19 pm
Oh yeah, one of the paintings was misattributed to Detaille on google. The styles are pretty similar though.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Duuring on September 21, 2015, 11:34:57 pm
Not really. Detaille paints highly realistic figures, with full backgrounds.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Archduke Sven on September 26, 2015, 05:41:14 pm
Quote from: Soon-ing on September 21, 2015, 11:34:57 pm
Not really. Detaille paints highly realistic figures, with full backgrounds.

'non-homophobic stick up his ass comment'
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: William on September 26, 2015, 05:43:23 pm
When do you think the FSE forums were at their prime? (Technically historical)
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Nipplestockings on September 26, 2015, 05:50:02 pm
Summer 2014 - early 2015 and early 2013 during and after the fse revolution. Top keks were had.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Duuring on September 26, 2015, 07:17:04 pm
Ah yeah, the FSE revolution. Good times.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: OttoFIN on October 04, 2015, 10:15:51 am
Kinda a geeky question but; which WWII-game is the most realistic and why  :P ?

Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Nipplestockings on October 04, 2015, 11:02:37 am
Red Orchestra 2. The only other populated one that I know if is DoD, which is not realistic at all. And the new WW2 mod for Arma which I can't remember the name for. Ro2 is your best bet, though. Goes on sale pretty often.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: OttoFIN on October 04, 2015, 11:20:03 am
Quote from: Nipplestockings on October 04, 2015, 11:02:37 am
Red Orchestra 2. The only other populated one that I know if is DoD, which is not realistic at all. And the new WW2 mod for Arma which I can't remember the name for. Ro2 is your best bet, though. Goes on sale pretty often.
Why is RO2 the most realistic?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Nipplestockings on October 04, 2015, 11:44:46 am
>realistic ballistics
>main weapon is bolt action rifle
>Bolt can be racked manually if you want
>bullet gravity
>bullet travel time
>multiple hitboxes on body
>bleed after you get hit
>bleed out and die if you get hit critically without bandaging
>realistic death
>terrible screams
>tanks
>artillery
>squad leaders, team leaders
>high level of skilled play

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=poz3SE0pzdc
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on October 04, 2015, 11:52:19 am
I want that game...
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: OttoFIN on October 19, 2015, 07:16:41 am
When was the "typical WWI" starting to get usual? (A lot of trenches, artillery barrages, going over the no man's land etc)
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: joer5835 on October 19, 2015, 12:28:15 pm
The armies at the western front started to dig in around the end of the first year of the war. So around fall/winter 1914.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Cazasar on October 19, 2015, 01:00:09 pm
Who started WW1 ?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Nipplestockings on October 19, 2015, 01:13:26 pm
Conrad von Hötzendorf
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Nick Lazanis on October 19, 2015, 04:13:10 pm
Quote from: Nipplestockings on October 19, 2015, 01:13:26 pm
Conrad von Hötzendorf
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on October 19, 2015, 04:52:02 pm
NO. GAVRILO PRINCIP. DO YOUR RESEARCH!!!1!!

Quote from: joer5835 on October 19, 2015, 12:28:15 pm
The armies at the western front started to dig in around the end of the first year of the war. So around fall/winter 1914.

They dug in September 1914. So yeah, I'd say they got used to the trenches or adjusted to them in around Late 1914/Early 1915.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Cazasar on October 19, 2015, 04:53:38 pm
No, the Serb just shot. Austria then decided to go to War. Well they had to, otherwise no one could have taken them serious anymore. But that happened anyway lol
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: joer5835 on October 19, 2015, 04:57:59 pm
Asking who actually started WW1 is asking different people what their favourite colour is. There's a lot of different opinions on who or what did it, and it is a very complex situation. And al though the shooting of Franz Ferdinand certainly had impact, a lot of factors that played along went back way further than 1914.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Cazasar on October 19, 2015, 04:58:58 pm
Quote from: joer5835 on October 19, 2015, 04:57:59 pm
Asking who actually started WW1 is asking different people what their favourite colour is. There's a lot of different opinions on who or what did it, and it is a very complex situation. And al though the shooting of Franz Ferdinand certainly had impact, a lot of factors that played a long went back way further than 1914.
Thats why I asked, I want to know peoples opinion. What is yours for example ?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on October 19, 2015, 04:59:43 pm
Yeah. But for me it's the Serbian assassin. He ignited everything. But even if he didn't, something else would of happened which created a world war.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: joer5835 on October 19, 2015, 05:25:43 pm
Quote from: Cazasar on October 19, 2015, 04:58:58 pm
Quote from: joer5835 on October 19, 2015, 04:57:59 pm
Asking who actually started WW1 is asking different people what their favourite colour is. There's a lot of different opinions on who or what did it, and it is a very complex situation. And al though the shooting of Franz Ferdinand certainly had impact, a lot of factors that played a long went back way further than 1914.
Thats why I asked, I want to know peoples opinion. What is yours for example ?

My opinion is that the main cause was the system of alliances built up over the course of the 1890's and the first decade of the 1900's. It could have been a local conflict between the Austro-Hungarians and the Serbians but their alliances with Germany, Russia and France made everything escalate. And like McLovin said, even if the Serbian thing never happenend, something else would cause it anyway. All those treaties and military alliances would provide for the almost same result in the end.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Frederik on October 19, 2015, 05:34:24 pm
Germany did it, look ib the treaty of versailles
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Cazasar on October 19, 2015, 05:36:01 pm
Quote from: Frederik on October 19, 2015, 05:34:24 pm
Germany did it, look ib the treaty of versailles
how to cause WW2, a guide by the Allies
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: OttoFIN on October 19, 2015, 05:46:14 pm
When did Germany start using the helmet they used in WWII?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: joer5835 on October 19, 2015, 05:49:10 pm
Quote from: OttoFIN on October 19, 2015, 05:46:14 pm
When did Germany start using the helmet they used in WWII?

The first Stahlhelm was introduced around 1916, 1917 if I recall correctly.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on October 19, 2015, 05:50:29 pm
Damn it, beat me to it.  >:(

Yes, it was invented in 1916. I can't decide between which 2 hats I like: pickelhaube or the stahlhelm.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: OttoFIN on October 19, 2015, 06:00:31 pm
Quote from: joer5835 on October 19, 2015, 05:49:10 pm
Quote from: OttoFIN on October 19, 2015, 05:46:14 pm
When did Germany start using the helmet they used in WWII?

The first Stahlhelm was introduced around 1916, 1917 if I recall correctly.
WIKIPOODIA WAZ WROOONG https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gas_mask#/media/File:Bundesarchiv_Bild_183-R52907,_Mannschaft_mit_Gasmasken_am_Fla-MG.jpg
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: BabyJesus on October 20, 2015, 02:56:55 pm
Was Hitler good for Germany?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on October 20, 2015, 04:19:16 pm
Yes, to his own non-Jewish people. The town was in poverty, had a lack of food and was regarded, at the time, as one of the worst cities in the town. The people were very poor, and on Himmler's birthday they handed out free radios.

But was he good for Germany? Yes and no. He seemed to be good, treat his people nice and when the war started he was doing good by 1942, managing to conquer many countries and France fell very quickly. But then everything went downhill, and Germany got their army size decreased. So mostly yes, but also no in my opinion.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on October 20, 2015, 09:01:33 pm
What use were cavalry in WW1? Now I know that they transported things and other stuff, but what use were cavalry regiments that fought? They would get obliterated in the trenches.

EDIT: Sorry for double post.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: joer5835 on October 20, 2015, 09:04:38 pm
They did scouting and reconaissance before the armies started digging in.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on October 20, 2015, 09:07:37 pm
Quote from: joer5835 on October 20, 2015, 09:04:38 pm
They did scouting and reconaissance before the armies started digging in.

Thanks for the insight.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Frederik on October 21, 2015, 12:14:35 am
Quote from: The Mighty McLovin on October 20, 2015, 09:01:33 pm
What use were cavalry in WW1? Now I know that they transported things and other stuff, but what use were cavalry regiments that fought? They would get obliterated in the trenches.

EDIT: Sorry for double post.

On the eastern front they sometimes fought as the distance were so big.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: OttoFIN on October 21, 2015, 07:39:18 am
Did Finland have any value or was it just a piece of land during the 18th century?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Black Watch 1745 on October 21, 2015, 02:12:45 pm
Spoiler
Quote from: The Mighty McLovin on October 20, 2015, 09:01:33 pm
What use were cavalry in WW1? Now I know that they transported things and other stuff, but what use were cavalry regiments that fought? They would get obliterated in the trenches.

EDIT: Sorry for double post.
[close]

  With cavalry they were trained in more of a dragoon role at the beginning of the war, although this did vary from army to army. The British Army had had to fight the Boer Commandos so had learned a little from that. Whilst there were plenty of officers who thought that a traditional cavalry charge would win the war in a day it was clear that was not going to happen. Contrary to films, we never did launch many charges and the few times we did we did not even get close to the enemy lines (we got held up by barbed wire that the Belgian farmers had put there before the war). Funnily enough in 1918, when the fighting moved out of the trenches, they had a use again (mainly reconnaissance) but also supporting the armour and infantry. During the Germans first Spring offensive a Canadian Cavalry regiment charged the Germans and helped slow up the advance although they suffered very heavy casualties. I think the Belgians launched the last cavalry charge of the Great War in October of 1918. For most of late 1914 to early 1918 though the cavalry was either dismounted and sent to the trenches or remained in reserve for the breakthrough that never came.
  As others have said, on the Eastern Front cavalry was used extensively. The Eastern Front was much longer than the Western Front so it was impractical to build a continuous line of trenches like in the west. Probably the most famous Cavalry Charge of the war was at Beersheba in late 1917 where the ANZAC Cavalry charged the Turks. If my memory serves me right the Turks forgot to adjust their sights so their shots largely missed the oncoming cavalry.
  Here are some articles for more information on the cavalry that fought on the Western Front:
http://www.renegademiniatures.com/article16.htm
http://www.renegademiniatures.com/article4.htm
http://www.renegademiniatures.com/article13.htm

EDIT:
Spoiler
Did Finland have any value or was it just a piece of land during the 18th century? 
[close]
  I am not an expert on the Great Northern War, nor  the Russo-Swedish conflicts over Finland which continued on and off till the Napoleonic Wars, but I would imagine that it would have been vital in controlling the Baltic, not to mention the lumber that could be used. I am not sure if Finland possessed any other resources that would have been useful.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Duuring on October 21, 2015, 03:42:05 pm
If Finland was owned by a rival state, this also meant that any attacker could march into the heartland of Russia by simply crossing the border.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on October 21, 2015, 04:17:27 pm
Quote from: Black Watch 1745 on October 21, 2015, 02:12:45 pm
Spoiler
Quote from: The Mighty McLovin on October 20, 2015, 09:01:33 pm
What use were cavalry in WW1? Now I know that they transported things and other stuff, but what use were cavalry regiments that fought? They would get obliterated in the trenches.

EDIT: Sorry for double post.
[close]

  With cavalry they were trained in more of a dragoon role at the beginning of the war, although this did vary from army to army. The British Army had had to fight the Boer Commandos so had learned a little from that. Whilst there were plenty of officers who thought that a traditional cavalry charge would win the war in a day it was clear that was not going to happen. Contrary to films, we never did launch many charges and the few times we did we did not even get close to the enemy lines (we got held up by barbed wire that the Belgian farmers had put there before the war). Funnily enough in 1918, when the fighting moved out of the trenches, they had a use again (mainly reconnaissance) but also supporting the armour and infantry. During the Germans first Spring offensive a Canadian Cavalry regiment charged the Germans and helped slow up the advance although they suffered very heavy casualties. I think the Belgians launched the last cavalry charge of the Great War in October of 1918. For most of late 1914 to early 1918 though the cavalry was either dismounted and sent to the trenches or remained in reserve for the breakthrough that never came.
  As others have said, on the Eastern Front cavalry was used extensively. The Eastern Front was much longer than the Western Front so it was impractical to build a continuous line of trenches like in the west. Probably the most famous Cavalry Charge of the war was at Beersheba in late 1917 where the ANZAC Cavalry charged the Turks. If my memory serves me right the Turks forgot to adjust their sights so their shots largely missed the oncoming cavalry.
  Here are some articles for more information on the cavalry that fought on the Western Front:
http://www.renegademiniatures.com/article16.htm
http://www.renegademiniatures.com/article4.htm
http://www.renegademiniatures.com/article13.htm

EDIT:
Spoiler
Did Finland have any value or was it just a piece of land during the 18th century? 
[close]
  I am not an expert on the Great Northern War, nor  the Russo-Swedish conflicts over Finland which continued on and off till the Napoleonic Wars, but I would imagine that it would have been vital in controlling the Baltic, not to mention the lumber that could be used. I am not sure if Finland possessed any other resources that would have been useful.

Very nice insight. Thank you!
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: BabyJesus on October 22, 2015, 09:46:16 pm
Was Stalin worse than Hitler?


Note: they are both awful people
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Nipplestockings on October 22, 2015, 10:27:34 pm
Nope. Stalin was more of a narcissistic idiot than Hitler. Most of the deaths he caused were due to his own stubbornness and incompetence rather than malicious intent.

Hitler was a sadistic lunatic. Inb4 a 'moderate' defends Hitler.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Scot Grey on October 24, 2015, 05:35:29 am
Question: Who really won the battle of Waterloo? The British or Prussians.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Mr T on October 24, 2015, 11:18:27 am
The Allies. Neither the Prussians nor the Allied army under Wellington could have won without the other in support.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: joer5835 on October 24, 2015, 01:06:53 pm
I always die a little from the inside when people only mention the British or the Prussians at Waterloo when discussing he allied side. Yeah, just forgot about the KGL, the Dutch, the Belgians, the Hannoverians, the Nassaus and the Brunswickers.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: OttoFIN on October 24, 2015, 01:33:19 pm
Were there consription during the 18th century?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on October 24, 2015, 02:12:51 pm
Quote from: OttoFIN on October 24, 2015, 01:33:19 pm
Were there consription during the 18th century?

Of course.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: OttoFIN on October 24, 2015, 03:47:58 pm
Quote from: The Mighty McLovin on October 24, 2015, 02:12:51 pm
Quote from: OttoFIN on October 24, 2015, 01:33:19 pm
Were there consription during the 18th century?

Of course.
Was it any different?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on October 24, 2015, 04:00:03 pm
Quote from: OttoFIN on October 24, 2015, 03:47:58 pm
Quote from: The Mighty McLovin on October 24, 2015, 02:12:51 pm
Quote from: OttoFIN on October 24, 2015, 01:33:19 pm
Were there consription during the 18th century?

Of course.
Was it any different?

I'm not sure. I'm sure, though, that conscription wasn't as full scale as in the First World War.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Nipplestockings on October 24, 2015, 04:02:04 pm
Jya m8. Napoleon revolutionized the system of mass conscription. That's why Napoleon was able to raise armies so much more quickly than other countries.

http://www.militaryhistoryonline.com/18thcentury/articles/thesuccessofnapoleon.aspx

Man, all the old EU players who knew a shit ton about the napoleonic wars aren't here anymore. Except durrring and a few others. But they're all dutch so they don't count.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: joer5835 on October 24, 2015, 04:23:18 pm
Quote from: Nipplestockings on October 24, 2015, 04:02:04 pm
But they're all dutch so they don't count.

U fooking wot m8

But ontopic: No, conscription was really a thing that came up during the Napoleonic Wars.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Mr T on October 24, 2015, 05:42:53 pm
I ain't no Dutchman.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Duuring on October 24, 2015, 09:47:15 pm
Conscription aka forced service wasn't a Napoleonic invention. Massed conscription however, meaning that basically every able-bodied male citizens could and would be called up, was a whole new thing.

It was quite an interesting system though, that Napoleon used. You'd get a number, say, for example, 53, and they'd designate the 'call-up' for your specific year at something like 40, meaning that all the people who drew a number 40 or lower were immediately called up. If, in a later stage, more men were needed, they'd simply raise the number and all those under the new number were also called up.

You could switch numbers - many impoverished people who would draw a high number would trade it for a low one in exchange for a sum of money. And these were very serious amounts of money, which would often enable the soldier to start a farm or a business when he came back. If you had brothers already serving in the army, you would get basically get a 'get-out-for-free'-card, meaning you could never be called up. These 'cards' could also be traded, and the prices paid for those were extremely high - because it meant you had 100% certainty you would never have to serve.

There were some other reasons that would exclude you from service, like being the sole child of your parents, to make sure the conscription didn't have to much of an impact on society.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: joer5835 on October 25, 2015, 12:20:21 am
I've also read that mutaliting yourself, such as cutting off fingers, also excluded you from conscription.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Black Watch 1745 on October 26, 2015, 02:53:49 pm
  Some of the troops Elizabeth I sent to Ireland are often referred to as being 'conscripted':
http://www.tudorgroup.co.uk/Articles/Trayned_bands.html
(I remember the historian John Guy at a lecture I attended once said that conscription was used).
  As others have said though, it was not really till the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars when the idea of the 'Nation in Arms' came along and you began to see mass armies of conscripts. The Tudor system of conscription cannot really be compared with the Napoleonic one. Right up until the 19th century plenty of people were 'impressed' into service.
  As for mutilating yourself to avoid being called up, yes that happened. Mark Urban's book 'Fuziliers' about the 23rd Royal Welch Fuziliers in the American War of Independence has one example. When we were preparing more regiments to send out to America we gave prisoners the choice of either being sent to/remaining in prison or joining the army, most preferred prison. Two prisoners were told they were going to be forced to join the army so they cut their thumbs and index fingers off to avoid service.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: joer5835 on October 26, 2015, 02:56:36 pm
Ah, yes the imfamous press gangs. You've got to give the British credit, even without any proper conscription they still had their ways of getting a steady supply of new recruits though.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on October 26, 2015, 03:06:11 pm
Imagine being drunk in a bar, and then you fall asleep... and then wake up in a ship. Those press gangs must of being scary.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on November 23, 2015, 07:06:21 pm
Are there any good Napoleonic era movies apart from Waterloo?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Mr T on November 23, 2015, 11:38:50 pm
Master and Commander
The Duellists
Hornblower mini-series
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Sir-Legion on November 24, 2015, 02:53:51 pm
Napoleon series (4 parts) 2002
Really good series
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Black Watch 1745 on November 26, 2015, 12:43:08 am
  The Russians also did a movie (well it is more like four) of War and peace in the sixties. The Battle scenes are some of the largest ever put to film. It was directed by Sergei Bondarchuk, the same man who directed Waterloo a few years later. All four parts are up on YouTube. The BBC did a series in the early seventies although the battles are minuscule (understandable as they were producing very good dramas on a low budget). The BBC have also done a remake due to be shown sometime soon. The other one I remember, and which is sometimes shown on BBC 2, is the one done in the fifties.
  Despite the fact that the battles are not very big, Sharpe is still good. Sure, it has led to half the NA membership being in the 3 battalions of the 95th but even so it has lead to a renewed interest in the era.
  There was also a Hornblower film back in the fifties with Gregory Peck. I cannot remember the name but there was also a good one with Nelson that I remember seeing when I was young (not the one with Lawrence Olivier, a later one from the seventies). I remember it was shown on National Geographic and I remember some of the battle scenes fairly well and the opening and closing shots of Nelson arriving in harbour in the dead of night, although the last is of course after the battle as he is being brought back for burial.
  It is interesting that Stanley Kubrick was going to make a film about Napoleon but, thanks to Waterloo not doing too well at the box office, along with a few other factors, the studios decided that anything Napoleonic on such a large scale was a risk. Spielberg has now apparently decided to do a miniseries based largely upon what Kubrick researched and wrote.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: joer5835 on November 26, 2015, 02:38:35 pm
Quote from: Black Watch 1745 on November 26, 2015, 12:43:08 am
Despite the fact that the battles are not very big, Sharpe is still good. Sure, it has led to half the NA membership being in the 3 battalions of the 95th but even so it has lead to a renewed interest in the era.

I'd always recommend taking Sharpe with a big grain of salt. The novels were written as romantised action/adventure stories and the TV series follows that path. The historical accuracy of that series is a joke and it is heavily pro-British and anti-everything that isn't British (French are shown as incompetent fools and don't even get me started on what they did to the Prince of Orange). As said before, the 'large' battle scenes are so small that it is downright cringeworthy. But if you keep that in mind and none of that bothers you, you have quite an alright action/adventure series.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Colonel Howe on November 29, 2015, 12:53:11 am
Sharpe was good for me

It was enjoyable to feel washed over in British propaganda

Rule Britannia
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: OttoFIN on November 29, 2015, 11:00:51 am
I must post this for the Sharpe fans:
https://youtu.be/DITsdmZs0yE
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Black Watch 1745 on November 30, 2015, 01:19:53 am
  Well this video was interesting:
Spoiler
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iNBVA8mT5s4
[close]
  Back to the original question, I also seem to remember one set in the Peninsular war where a British officer was attached to some Spanish partisans who were trying to move a cannon to attack a French held fortress. I think it was made in the fifties although I cannot remember the name. I remember some of the scenes, for example them ambushing some French soldiers by a bridge, hiding the cannon in a religious procession and finally storming the fortress.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Bootvs on November 30, 2015, 05:08:47 am
Quote from: OttoFIN on November 29, 2015, 11:00:51 am
I must post this for the Sharpe fans:
https://youtu.be/DITsdmZs0yE
Love it.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Sir-Legion on November 30, 2015, 10:36:40 am
Quote from: Black Watch 1745 on November 30, 2015, 01:19:53 am
  Well this video was interesting:
Spoiler
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iNBVA8mT5s4
[close]
  Back to the original question, I also seem to remember one set in the Peninsular war where a British officer was attached to some Spanish partisans who were trying to move a cannon to attack a French held fortress. I think it was made in the fifties although I cannot remember the name. I remember some of the scenes, for example them ambushing some French soldiers by a bridge, hiding the cannon in a religious procession and finally storming the fortress.
Lol who keeps himself busy with that stuff I ask myself then :p
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: BabyJesus on January 11, 2016, 08:33:19 pm
Worst US president?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Black Watch 1745 on January 12, 2016, 02:33:05 pm
Quote from: BabyJesus on January 11, 2016, 08:33:19 pm
Worst US president?
Oh dear, I think I just heard a can of worms opening! For the Democrats I would say James Buchanan (in office 1857-1861). He was President prior to the Civil War and didn't do very well in trying to sort the mess out that led to the conflict. True, it was a difficult situation, but nevertheless he has to take quite a bit of the blame. Personally I was never very keen on Woodrow Wilson and I am not really a fan of Obama.
  For the Republicans, modern day ones would be people like George Bush junior and Nixon but the one I personally would put down a bit would be Grant. He was a brilliant general in the Civil War (if somewhat wasteful with his men lives) but was not very successful as a President (or much else). He wasn't the worst but there were quite a few corruption scandals and not to mention an economic downturn (okay not entirely his fault but he wasn't much of an economist and his actions didn't really help matters).
  For the record I am an Englishman so I do not have a wealth of knowledge on the subject.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Salcos on January 15, 2016, 07:19:55 am
Worst President would have to go to Herbert Hoover, destroyed Usa from the inside for a period with his phony laws, and brought the rest of the world done with him due to his action.

If France won the Franco-Prussian War, could WW1 be prevented?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on January 15, 2016, 04:16:03 pm
Quote from: Salcos on January 15, 2016, 07:19:55 am
Worst President would have to go to Herbert Hoover, destroyed Usa from the inside for a period with his phony laws, and brought the rest of the world done with him due to his action.

If France won the Franco-Prussian War, could WW1 be prevented?

Not really. It only gave allowed France to keep Alsace-Lorainne. Anyways, all of the alliances (Central Powers, Triple Entente) would still be formed and the same outcome would happen.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: BabyJesus on January 15, 2016, 04:25:14 pm
Well the main reason France allied with Russia was because they were scared of Germany. It's hard to say if they would still ally if France won the war.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Black Watch 1745 on January 15, 2016, 05:04:21 pm
  And I doubt that Germany would have united if they had lost the Franco-Prussian war (it may have politically united at a later date though, and the North German Confederation was pretty powerful on its own), although I don't think the French would have been able to win, at least not decisively given Napoleon III's leadership (he was effective at times, but he did not have the genius of Napoleon I). As Bismarck said when he visited France before the war 'I met two women when I went to France, the Empress and her husband' or words to that effect.
  People forget that Germany, Austria-Hungary and Russia formed the 'League of the Three Emperors' that only really broke down when Wilhelm II took the throne (It had technically gone a little bit before then but any hope of renewal was killed off when Bismarck was sacked) so an alliance with France was not assured, although Tsar Alexander III never really did like the Germans. The alliance system does get very confusing when Bismarck was involved (there was a pact between Germany, Italy and the UK and of course the triple alliance between Germany, Austria-Hungary and Italy). I am of the opinion that Bismarck created all these confusing alliances so that a war would not break out because no-one would have any idea what alliance they belonged to!
  The main way WW1 could have been prevented would be if the Russians had taken Plevna sooner in 1877-78, thus dealing with the 'Eastern Question' a bit sooner.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on February 16, 2016, 12:17:56 pm
Are there any websites for Denmark during the Napoleonic Wars?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Volk on February 16, 2016, 05:32:36 pm
Quote from: The Mighty McLovin on February 16, 2016, 12:17:56 pm
Are there any websites for Denmark during the Napoleonic Wars?
You can actually learn about Denmark by looking up stuff for Britain, ie their invasion.

Probably might want to start there, I doubt there are any"Denmark during the Napoleonic Wars" sites that offer every little important detail.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Black Watch 1745 on February 16, 2016, 05:37:50 pm
If you mean research into their uniforms then this site sells some plates:
https://www.brigade-uniform-tafeln.de/nationen/a-e/daenemark/
  If it is more about the history of Denmark in the wars then I am not too sure. There are a few bloggers who have done things on the Danes:
http://blundersonthedanube.blogspot.co.uk/2013/09/danish-army-of-napoleonic-wars-part-1.html
http://madmonarchist.blogspot.co.uk/2013/08/denmark-in-napoleonic-wars.html
  Remember as well that Denmark was in a personal union with Norway till the end of the war (Norway was then in a personal union with Sweden until the early 1900's). I don't know if the Norwegian troops were treated as a separate army or were lumped together with the Danes.
EDIT: Perry Miniatures are now doing a range of 28mm metals covering the Danes (and the Norwegians):
https://www.perry-miniatures.com/index.php?cPath=23_28_91
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on February 16, 2016, 06:03:20 pm
Funny you should mention Perry's Miniatures, that's where I started to wonder about Denmark in the NW. I will surely look at some of those other links later, thank you! Btw, have you ever painted Perry's Miniatures?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Black Watch 1745 on February 16, 2016, 06:24:41 pm
Many many hundreds, and many hundreds more lie in piles waiting. Here are some pictures of Sir Denis Pack of the 9th Brigade at Waterloo I did a while back:
Spoiler
(https://www.fsegames.eu/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-zqb9tEIpfOU%2FUiWlTSiMThI%2FAAAAAAAABZM%2FDY3X3uUO4M8%2Fs1600%2F001.JPG&hash=a96078994213f2976aacd0161360cb96f3a0966d)
[close]
Spoiler
(https://www.fsegames.eu/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-W6FVwwGjWHE%2FVYLg_OPHTpI%2FAAAAAAAAChI%2FhhReW7nQxas%2Fs1600%2F002.JPG&hash=086f7f4e7c1fba5656d3bcbc9f8213cf2c59c74c)
[close]
Spoiler
(https://www.fsegames.eu/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2F1.bp.blogspot.com%2F-a84r2GOMl5g%2FVYLg--hZ-jI%2FAAAAAAAAChE%2FlHfftIr2T3w%2Fs1600%2F003.JPG&hash=d45a337ae3248fcbfc673d2b0ce4e4ca582d7fa3)
[close]

 
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on February 16, 2016, 06:32:36 pm
Awesome! I've been considering to start some Red Lancers from Perry's Miniatuers but I don't know where to get the paint? I was wondering if you could help.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Black Watch 1745 on February 16, 2016, 08:01:53 pm
Quite a few hobby stores sell them. If not Vallejo do a range:
https://www.modelhobbies.co.uk/shop/vallejo-m-125.html?page=1&filter_id=51
  Games Workshop paints can be bough from them directly although it is cheaper to get them off the internet usually (eBay and Amazon are good). They are the two I use the most.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on February 16, 2016, 08:09:41 pm
Damn, so you have to order the colours separately... no worries, thanks for the help!
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Bravescot on February 24, 2016, 12:30:52 am
In which yeah did the British army switch from numbering (No.1 Coy - No.8 Coy.) their companies to having letters to denote their companies (A Coy. - H Coy.)?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Black Watch 1745 on February 24, 2016, 12:06:39 pm
Hmm, I am not too sure. I know we got rid of grenadier and light infantry companies in the 1860's after the Crimea so I would guess around that time. There were traditionally ten companies including the flank companies in a British battalion in the Napoleonic Wars, I believe that had dropped to eight by the Crimea and by WW1 it was down to four.
  They definitely had lettered companies by the Zulu War so we are looking at a time frame between 1860-1879.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on February 24, 2016, 04:28:10 pm
Quote from: Black Watch 1745 on February 24, 2016, 12:06:39 pm
Hmm, I am not too sure. I know we got rid of grenadier and light infantry companies in the 1860's after the Crimea so I would guess around that time. There were traditionally ten companies including the flank companies in a British battalion in the Napoleonic Wars, I believe that had dropped to eight by the Crimea and by WW1 it was down to four.
  They definitely had lettered companies by the Zulu War so we are looking at a time frame between 1860-1879.

I thought in the Napoleonic Wars an infantry regiment had around 8 companies, 1 grenadier and 1 light infantry company and 6 other infantry companies, including the flank companies of course.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Duuring on February 24, 2016, 04:29:44 pm
British infantry batallions had ten companies (including grenadier and light) and occasionlly changed that to six if the batallion suffered considerable losses to the point where having ten companies wasn't realistic.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on February 24, 2016, 04:34:20 pm
Quote from: Duuring on February 24, 2016, 04:29:44 pm
British infantry batallions had ten companies (including grenadier and light) and occasionlly changed that to six if the batallion suffered considerable losses to the point where having ten companies wasn't realistic.

Well at least I got the grenadier and light company part correct. The information must have got obscured in my head.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Bravescot on February 24, 2016, 05:49:25 pm
1868 maybe? Cardwell reforms?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Black Watch 1745 on February 24, 2016, 10:09:43 pm
The Cardwell reforms sound plausible in my opinion but I am only speculating. I vaguely remember reading about dropping the numbering of companies in a book but I cannot remember which one sadly. I am pretty sure it would have been the Liberals that would have changed it since the Tories were generally opposed to reform of the army.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on February 27, 2016, 11:43:53 am
Has anyone got a website for a map of the world and alliances in 1803? Either would be helpful.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Black Watch 1745 on February 27, 2016, 06:13:51 pm
There is one here of central Europe in 1803:
http://www.emersonkent.com/map_archive/central_europe_1803.htm
And another of Europe in 1803:
http://cliomaps.de/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/1803-EU-FGL.png
Finally, North America:
http://www.reformation.org/new-spain-map2.jpg
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on February 27, 2016, 06:16:29 pm
Quote from: Black Watch 1745 on February 27, 2016, 06:13:51 pm
There is one here of central Europe in 1803:
http://www.emersonkent.com/map_archive/central_europe_1803.htm
And another of Europe in 1803:
http://cliomaps.de/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/1803-EU-FGL.png
Finally, North America:
http://www.reformation.org/new-spain-map2.jpg

Thank you! They will be very helpfil.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: OttoFIN on February 27, 2016, 07:37:32 pm
I've been wondering for a while, in ww2 German uniforms what does the red and black thingy next to the buttons mean?
Spoiler
(https://www.fsegames.eu/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fhollywoodprop.com%2FHeer-late.jpg&hash=99488f8bd2f463db8a0b3a3b12c884e153a542b6)
[close]
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Dazzer on February 27, 2016, 08:36:42 pm
Is Star Wars real? I mean, it could possibly happen, a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Black Watch 1745 on February 27, 2016, 08:50:12 pm
Quote from: OttoFIN on February 27, 2016, 07:37:32 pm
I've been wondering for a while, in ww2 German uniforms what does the red and black thingy next to the buttons mean?
Spoiler
(https://www.fsegames.eu/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fhollywoodprop.com%2FHeer-late.jpg&hash=99488f8bd2f463db8a0b3a3b12c884e153a542b6)
[close]
  That is a ribbon from a medal (I think the Iron Cross Second Class, but don't quote me on that. Officially it is known as the Knights Cross I believe but it is often known as the Iron Cross). They tended to wear the ribbon like that.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on February 28, 2016, 12:41:43 am
I have another question actually. I tried looking it on the internet but couldn't find anything. Is there any information or articles on French canteens in the NW?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Nipplestockings on February 28, 2016, 01:00:13 am
From here:

http://theminiaturespage.com/boards/msg.mv?id=127715

"During the Napoleonic period, the French never had a 'regulation' canteen. It was up to the individual to procure his own container. Gourds, bottles and small wooden kegs were some of the things used. These would only have been carried on campaign so should be totally appropriate to depict on troops on campaign. In battle, the pack would be the first thing put dowm, if anything. It would have been sensible and no great encumbrance to keep ones drinking vessel on. They were worn on cords over the shoulder by the way."
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on February 28, 2016, 01:01:37 am
Quote from: Nipplestockings on February 28, 2016, 01:00:13 am
From here:

http://theminiaturespage.com/boards/msg.mv?id=127715

"During the Napoleonic period, the French never had a 'regulation' canteen. It was up to the individual to procure his own container. Gourds, bottles and small wooden kegs were some of the things used. These would only have been carried on campaign so should be totally appropriate to depict on troops on campaign. In battle, the pack would be the first thing put dowm, if anything. It would have been sensible and no great encumbrance to keep ones drinking vessel on. They were worn on cords over the shoulder by the way."

Interesting. I was watching a documentary about them having no canteen, I wanted to verify it.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Duuring on February 28, 2016, 10:28:43 am
That's incorrect, actually. The French did have an standard model and it was issued.

Spoiler
(https://www.fsegames.eu/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ftheblueposts.org%2Fdeuxponts%2FSuhrMarm.jpg&hash=47dd106ae7f17cb33e3cc5193a26b1721da50a7b)
[close]

a replica
(https://www.fsegames.eu/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.militaryheritage.com%2Fimages%2Fcanteen2.jpg&hash=1091e99e88c685d7cd16136408268e07e8cbb729)
[close]
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Frederik on February 28, 2016, 11:24:47 am
http://napoleon-online.de/Dokumente/Circulaire_1995_2.pdf
here is a article about the "petit bidon", the canteen of the french army. Its in german, but there are some pictures.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on February 28, 2016, 11:27:59 am
Thank you Duuring.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: OttoFIN on February 28, 2016, 12:26:22 pm
Has there ever been any info about Germany recruiting physically disabled men in WW2?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Duuring on February 28, 2016, 12:43:03 pm
The thing about physically disabled men is that they're physically disabled.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: OttoFIN on February 28, 2016, 12:45:10 pm
Quote from: Duuring on February 28, 2016, 12:43:03 pm
The thing about physically disabled men is that they're physically disabled.
Yes, but desperate situations need desperate measures.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on February 28, 2016, 12:46:44 pm
Why would the German army recruit physically disabled men? If they are physically disabled they cannot fight effectively.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Cara on February 28, 2016, 12:47:15 pm
Quote from: OttoFIN on February 28, 2016, 12:26:22 pm
Has there ever been any info about Germany recruiting physically disabled men in WW2?

Maybe are you referring to the Volkssturm ?

https://www.dhm.de/lemo/kapitel/zweiter-weltkrieg/kriegsverlauf/volkssturm
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: OttoFIN on February 28, 2016, 01:06:01 pm
Quote from: Carabino on February 28, 2016, 12:47:15 pm
Quote from: OttoFIN on February 28, 2016, 12:26:22 pm
Has there ever been any info about Germany recruiting physically disabled men in WW2?

Maybe are you referring to the Volkssturm ?

https://www.dhm.de/lemo/kapitel/zweiter-weltkrieg/kriegsverlauf/volkssturm
Yes, is there information about physically disabled men being trained and thrown in to the frontline, no matter if they had any limbs missing or anything else?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Cara on February 28, 2016, 02:54:24 pm
Quote from: OttoFIN on February 28, 2016, 01:06:01 pm
Quote from: Carabino on February 28, 2016, 12:47:15 pm
Quote from: OttoFIN on February 28, 2016, 12:26:22 pm
Has there ever been any info about Germany recruiting physically disabled men in WW2?

Maybe are you referring to the Volkssturm ?

https://www.dhm.de/lemo/kapitel/zweiter-weltkrieg/kriegsverlauf/volkssturm
Yes, is there information about physically disabled men being trained and thrown in to the frontline, no matter if they had any limbs missing or anything else?

Sure. Gave you a link in german (thought you spoke it). But you can find plenty of informations on Volkssturm in english.

"Being trained" was not really the case. Volkssturm was composed mostly of teenagers who learned (a bit) to use weapons in the Hitlerjugend. But there was a significant amount of 14-18 veterans, some of them physically disabled indeed.
During the last months on WW2, thousands of them were used in the "frontlines" : mostly urban warfare, hidden in a hole with a panzerfaust, waiting for a russian tank...
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: OttoFIN on March 02, 2016, 05:55:03 pm
Does anyone know where I can get good looking maps of Normandy, one with terrain showed and one where you can see all the roads easily?

Edit: It would be great if the map was WW2 era
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: George385 on March 03, 2016, 12:41:42 am
Quote from: OttoFIN on March 02, 2016, 05:55:03 pm
Does anyone know where I can get good looking maps of Normandy, one with terrain showed and one where you can see all the roads easily?

Edit: It would be great if the map was WW2 era

if you want one with unit markings as well, just look up on google images ''operation overlord map''

heres an example one:

Spoiler
(https://www.fsegames.eu/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.emersonkent.com%2Fimages%2Foperation_overlord.jpg&hash=18291d584496c670eee9e7586d06592d36af6ca2)
[close]
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: OttoFIN on March 03, 2016, 06:52:32 am
Quote from: George385 on March 03, 2016, 12:41:42 am
Quote from: OttoFIN on March 02, 2016, 05:55:03 pm
Does anyone know where I can get good looking maps of Normandy, one with terrain showed and one where you can see all the roads easily?

Edit: It would be great if the map was WW2 era

if you want one with unit markings as well, just look up on google images ''operation overlord map''

heres an example one:

Spoiler
(https://www.fsegames.eu/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.emersonkent.com%2Fimages%2Foperation_overlord.jpg&hash=18291d584496c670eee9e7586d06592d36af6ca2)
[close]
The thing is that I need a map without the unit markings.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Black Watch 1745 on March 03, 2016, 04:17:27 pm
Spoiler
Quote from: OttoFIN on March 03, 2016, 06:52:32 am
Quote from: George385 on March 03, 2016, 12:41:42 am
Quote from: OttoFIN on March 02, 2016, 05:55:03 pm
Does anyone know where I can get good looking maps of Normandy, one with terrain showed and one where you can see all the roads easily?

Edit: It would be great if the map was WW2 era

if you want one with unit markings as well, just look up on google images ''operation overlord map''

heres an example one:

Spoiler
(https://www.fsegames.eu/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.emersonkent.com%2Fimages%2Foperation_overlord.jpg&hash=18291d584496c670eee9e7586d06592d36af6ca2)
[close]
The thing is that I need a map without the unit markings.
[close]
  Well this site has some maps showing roads and the like (scroll down to maps at the bottom): http://www.history.army.mil/books/wwii/100-11/100-11.HTM
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: OttoFIN on March 04, 2016, 06:25:46 pm
Did Normandy's infrastructure evolve after WWII? How much different could the modern maps be from WWII ones of Normandy?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Black Watch 1745 on March 04, 2016, 09:56:27 pm
  I cannot be certain but I imagine that the road system would have improved somewhat since 1945, that being more tarmacked roads and perhaps slightly more of them. Railways again I am not too sure about, I don't know if the French had an equivalent of a Dr Beeching so they might have kept more of their lines open. Buildings would be different in some places as many would have been rebuilt after the war and the population has grown a little since 1945 (I think the population of France was somewhere around 40 million in the 1940's and it now stands at 65 million, don't know about Normandy specifically though).
  I would guess the modern day maps would not be too far off, the settlements and the location of many roads would be the same.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on March 06, 2016, 03:40:20 pm
Does anyone have a high resolution picture of Edourd Detaille's painting "The Hunt for Information"? I think that's the name of it, though if it isn't its along them lines. Its in a book of mine but I cant seem to find it online. Basically, its dragoon officers questioning civilians at a windmill for more information.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Volk on March 07, 2016, 04:59:24 am
Quote from: The Mighty McLovin on March 06, 2016, 03:40:20 pm
Does anyone have a high resolution picture of Edourd Detaille's painting "The Hunt for Information"? I think that's the name of it, though if it isn't its along them lines. Its in a book of mine but I cant seem to find it online. Basically, its dragoon officers questioning civilians at a windmill for more information.

This?

Spoiler
(https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/d6/92/78/d6927801a9c98a879a686898dcd5071c.jpg)
[close]
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on March 07, 2016, 09:07:12 am
Nope, thanks for trying though.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Cara on March 07, 2016, 06:01:09 pm
Called "Renseignements à l'Etat-Major, 1805"

Spoiler
(https://www.fsegames.eu/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffr.muzeo.com%2Fsites%2Fdefault%2Ffiles%2Fstyles%2Fimage_moyenne_def%2Fpublic%2Foeuvres%2Fpeinture%2Fmoderne%2Frenseignements_ea_leetatmajor46917.jpg%3Fitok%3DjJS3uMCL&hash=4a1a9bf3b5a7d6ef4ff5faaa2dbe8f5a97e2f53d)
[close]

without the tag :
Spoiler
(https://www.fsegames.eu/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.photo.rmn.fr%2FCorexDoc%2FRMN%2FMedia%2FTR1%2FISQS7W%2F06-506309.jpg&hash=a5301d3df153e462d32aa31f218e0bf8a6ce2119)
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Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on March 07, 2016, 06:05:01 pm
Thank you! I shall search for a bigger image now :)
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: JUAN THE GREAT! on March 09, 2016, 03:54:56 am
Is this image accurate to the Russian line infantry during the 1790s?
Spoiler
(https://www.fsegames.eu/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fbritishbattles.homestead.com%2Ffiles%2Frussia%2F1788%2Frussian_infantry_of_the_late_1790s__2_.jpg&hash=edc9718bcddd6ab78dd78f5d17d1375743218b73)
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Its really hard for me to tell with how almost modern it looks compared to its predecessors in the early 1800s. I mean, the guy on the top is what is really getting me in a stitch. I mean his shako for instance looks like a kepi.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Frederik on March 09, 2016, 12:41:06 pm
Its the so called "potemkin-uniform" which was worn from 1786-96.
I dont know about the shalo, but the uniform wasvery moderen and was replaced when paul I. became zar and reintroduced the old Uniforms
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: JUAN THE GREAT! on March 09, 2016, 04:17:47 pm
Thanks Frederik :D
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Bluehawk on March 09, 2016, 04:50:51 pm
It was a forage cap. It looks cylindrical because it has a protective flap that wraps around the back and sides to cover the neck and cheeks in the winter, but could be tied up around the head during the summer.

(https://i.imgur.com/rxHlIWH.jpg)
This particular sample is for a garrison regiment.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Volk on March 09, 2016, 10:39:29 pm
Quote from: JUAN THE GREAT! on March 09, 2016, 03:54:56 am
Is this image accurate to the Russian line infantry during the 1790s?
Spoiler
(https://www.fsegames.eu/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fbritishbattles.homestead.com%2Ffiles%2Frussia%2F1788%2Frussian_infantry_of_the_late_1790s__2_.jpg&hash=edc9718bcddd6ab78dd78f5d17d1375743218b73)
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Its really hard for me to tell with how almost modern it looks compared to its predecessors in the early 1800s. I mean, the guy on the top is what is really getting me in a stitch. I mean his shako for instance looks like a kepi.
God those uniforms are terrible. Good thing we switched to better ones during Napoleonic Wars ^-^
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: JUAN THE GREAT! on March 10, 2016, 12:51:03 am
The uniforms were pretty alright(cept for the ones you saw)
Like this
Spoiler
(https://www.fsegames.eu/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fc8.alamy.com%2Fcomp%2FB6N543%2Funiform-of-musketeers-of-moscow-garrison-of-russian-army-1796-1800-B6N543.jpg&hash=6391970e9b97890438ff8f25c58586083ef35284)
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 or this
Spoiler
(https://www.fsegames.eu/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi422.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fpp302%2Flerussesatan%2FRussian%2520Uniforms%2Frus_uni_pic2.jpg&hash=5b81f144d9e2a45663a3055fa8bef59a2f9bf901)
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Also saying that the Napoleonic uniforms were better is kinda a overstatement. After looking up information on this, Apparently troops loved the uniforms they were given before peter 1 reformed it to the more prussianized versions in 1796. The reasons for this was that the old uniforms were more comfortable for the troops and even more practical. When peter introduced the Prussian uniform sample, many, and I mean many problems aroused. Troops and Generals alike complained about the uniforms being too tight, uncomfortable, and even too German like. Over time reforms did better the uniforms by 1812, but problems still persisted. Although, I can agree that the Napoleonic uniform is much better looking :)
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Bluehawk on March 10, 2016, 02:54:32 am
Paul I, not Peter I. There's a world of difference between their reigns  ;)

Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Volk on March 10, 2016, 02:59:54 am
Quote from: Bluehawk on March 10, 2016, 02:54:32 am
Paul I, not Peter I. There's a world of difference between their reigns  ;)
^ This

Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: JUAN THE GREAT! on March 10, 2016, 03:11:04 am
whoops   :D
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on March 11, 2016, 04:12:11 pm
I've got two questions today.

1) On this picture it shows you two soldiers, both light infantry of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. The soldier on the left is Dutch soldier issued with Austrian-style shako and the one on the right is a Belgian soldier, issued with a British-style shako. I'm wondering, however, why this is? Why don't they both have the same shako? I must say, I prefer the one on the left.
Images of the light infantrymen
(https://i.imgur.com/CyajmAu.jpg)
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2) What would a typical hairstyle of a drummer boy, in a British light/line infantry regiment during the Napoleonic Wars? Also, to do with the British, what type of glasses/spectacles would a British soldier normally wear? (These are for re-enactments but I thought it would be better to ask on the historical discussion part of the forum).
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Duuring on March 11, 2016, 05:45:08 pm
1. The left shako are for 'Northern Dutch' units, the right were for 'Southern Dutch' (Belgian) units. Why they decided use different shakos I never really found out. Some form of regimental or national pride, maybe. They abolished the difference with the introduction of new shakos in 1817.

The 35th and 36th batallions were Belgian light infantry, the 16th, 18th and 27th were Dutch.

2. Any type of regular short haircut without shaved sides would be good, really. Plenty of modern haircuts work. For spectacles, something like this
Spoiler
(https://www.fsegames.eu/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.gilai.com%2Fimages%2Fitems%2F1991_big.jpg&hash=84bd4ba388b238c421d1d3475bb435c2a4d640c9)
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Though keep in mind that spectacles obviously were pretty expensive and not really for low-class citizens (which soldiers, by definition, were). I know a few people who wear glasses in normal life but don't during re-enactment (either wearing lences or nothing at all) but obviously they have 'weak' glasses. Kudos to you for actually thinking about getting proper glasses, it's crazy and extremely annoying how many people just don't bother.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on March 11, 2016, 07:02:43 pm
Thanks for the answer Duuring! I suppose that the Southern Dutch had British influence while the Northern Dutch had Austrian influence? This is probably wrong. Thanks for the information however.

And as for the haircuts/spectacles, thank you. In my regiment it is mandatory to have correct spectacles.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Duuring on March 11, 2016, 10:13:01 pm
I don't think it had anything to do with influence, really. We were already importing a lot of British stuff, maybe it had something to do with that. And yes, the Austrian shakos are much more stylish.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: OttoFIN on March 12, 2016, 09:03:07 am
How much training would a WW1 conscript need to be doing to become a really good soldier?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Bluehawk on March 12, 2016, 07:12:28 pm
Quote from: JUAN THE GREAT! on March 09, 2016, 03:54:56 am
Is this image accurate to the Russian line infantry during the 1790s?
Spoiler
(https://www.fsegames.eu/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fbritishbattles.homestead.com%2Ffiles%2Frussia%2F1788%2Frussian_infantry_of_the_late_1790s__2_.jpg&hash=edc9718bcddd6ab78dd78f5d17d1375743218b73)
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To add just one more thing about these uniforms. The reason why you might have seen these broadly associated with the 1790s is because they represent the uniforms of the Black Sea fleet's galley forces - marines, essentially. The reforms of 1796 didn't catch up to them until 1798. So for the most part they really were worn though the 1790s, but they're not 1:1 representative of the line infantry. The original article the illustration comes from is "Пехота гребных флотилий 1788-1798" (Infantry of the galley flotilla 1788-1798) by Oleg Leonov, and was originally published in Zeughaus Magazine in issue 8 from 1998.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on March 15, 2016, 07:32:49 pm
The colour bearers protected the standards in battle, right?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Duuring on March 15, 2016, 09:24:52 pm
Well, no, they carried them. Colour guards (with various names) protected them,
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on March 15, 2016, 09:31:43 pm
Do you know the name for the colour guards in the British army?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Duuring on March 15, 2016, 09:43:59 pm
Not really, only the French and Dutch.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Black Watch 1745 on March 16, 2016, 01:04:43 am
Quote from: The Mighty McLovin on March 15, 2016, 09:31:43 pm
Do you know the name for the colour guards in the British army?
  Well there are Colour Sergeants but I doubt there would be many of them. I assume that it would just be referred to as the Colour Guard.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on March 19, 2016, 08:27:44 pm
Thanks! I read it somewhere but forgot the name.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on March 26, 2016, 09:15:26 pm
Does anyone know which song that starts from 2:48 onwards?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xXdhs2u1TWA

EDIT: Nevermind, it's the Gallows Tree, an old Scottish folk song. Or MacPherson's Rant.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Turin Turambar on March 28, 2016, 09:34:38 pm
Which person in history did literally nothing wrong?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on March 28, 2016, 09:47:46 pm
Quote from: Turin Turambar on March 28, 2016, 09:34:38 pm
Which person in history did literally nothing wrong?

Hitler
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Pau Catacumbes on March 28, 2016, 11:50:51 pm
Quote from: The Mighty McLovin on March 28, 2016, 09:47:46 pm
Quote from: Turin Turambar on March 28, 2016, 09:34:38 pm
Which person in history did literally nothing wrong?

Hitler
As Tay said
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Turin Turambar on March 29, 2016, 12:13:34 am
Quote from: The Mighty McLovin on March 28, 2016, 09:47:46 pm
Quote from: Turin Turambar on March 28, 2016, 09:34:38 pm
Which person in history did literally nothing wrong?

Hitler
Thanks, that's all I wanted to hear.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: GerRagnar on April 01, 2016, 04:08:54 pm
Should Alsace-Lorraine be German?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: OttoFIN on April 04, 2016, 01:40:49 pm
Why did North Vietnam suffer so many casualties in the Vietnam War? According to Wikipedia: https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vietnam_War (best source of accurate information ikr) North Vietnam's side had over  461 000 men combined, but lost "444,000–1,100,000 military dead or missing and 600,000+ wounded". Someone explain pls
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: AeroNinja on April 04, 2016, 01:41:39 pm
#FuckingUSArmy m8.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Phailur on April 04, 2016, 01:47:11 pm
Quote from: GerRagnar on April 01, 2016, 04:08:54 pm
Should Alsace-Lorraine be German?
Celtic
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on April 04, 2016, 01:51:34 pm
Quote from: Niihara on April 04, 2016, 01:41:39 pm
#FuckingUSArmy m8.

Quote
The Americans committed around 5,500 democidal killings between 1960 and 1972. Although information is sparse, American bombing in Cambodia is estimated to have killed between 40,000 and 15,000 civilians and combatants. About 18 million gallons of Agent Orange were spraid by the US over more than 10% of Southern Vietnam - 400,000 were killed or maimed and around 500,000 children were born with birth defects.

Source - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vietnam_War_casualties#Deaths_caused_by_the_American_military
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Nipplestockings on April 04, 2016, 02:07:55 pm
US military engaged in a policy of killing everything when they realized they couldn't take and hold north vietnam. Most killed were civilian noncombatants.

http://americanhistory.oxfordre.com/view/10.1093/acrefore/9780199329175.001.0001/acrefore-9780199329175-e-239
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on April 06, 2016, 11:47:10 pm
There is a film that I wish you could identify... I have being looking through WW1 videos but I can't seem to find the name of the film.. anyway, the story follows an Austro-Hungarian artillery battery during the early stages of the First World War. It's fairly old, if I had to guess I'd say 1960s maybe. I was looking but I couldn't find the name, help identifying this film will be highly appreciated.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Cara on April 07, 2016, 12:48:15 am
Quote from: The Mighty McLovin on April 06, 2016, 11:47:10 pm
There is a film that I wish you could identify... I have being looking through WW1 videos but I can't seem to find the name of the film.. anyway, the story follows an Austro-Hungarian artillery battery during the early stages of the First World War. It's fairly old, if I had to guess I'd say 1960s maybe. I was looking but I couldn't find the name, help identifying this film will be highly appreciated.

Probably it's a serbian artillery battery and the movie would be March on the Drina (1964) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/March_on_the_Drina_(film)
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on April 07, 2016, 10:25:47 am
Yes, that's it, thanks for the help!  :D
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on April 16, 2016, 04:03:04 pm
Sorry for double post.

Are there any websites for WW2 like Napolun?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Manfried_Wulf on April 18, 2016, 03:59:46 am
Does anyone know of any cool Belgian or  "Southern Dutch" regiments during the Napoleonic Wars?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Duuring on April 18, 2016, 09:49:31 am
There were belgians in various French regiments as well as, if I remember correctly, six infantry batallions and three cavalry regiments in the Dutch army of 1815. Pick your fancy.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Manfried_Wulf on April 18, 2016, 02:11:05 pm
Thanks do you know what kind of ranks they would use as well I am planing on making a reg soon that's Dutch but as you can see I know nothing on them.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Duuring on April 18, 2016, 04:44:16 pm
They used French ranks and organisation. Properly didn't even bother to translate, as pretty much the entire officer corps and probably a good part of the men spoke only French.

Here's some info.

http://centjours.mont-saint-jean.com/unitesNL.php
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Manfried_Wulf on April 18, 2016, 06:36:06 pm
Thanks :)
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: OttoFIN on June 13, 2016, 03:23:43 pm
How common was German camouflage in 1944 and 1945 and which was used the most and by who?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Duuring on June 13, 2016, 04:32:49 pm
Someone get Petschie.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: joer5835 on June 14, 2016, 11:49:55 am
PEEEEETSCHIIIIIE
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Black Watch 1745 on June 20, 2016, 02:12:06 am
Quote from: OttoFIN on June 13, 2016, 03:23:43 pm
How common was German camouflage in 1944 and 1945 and which was used the most and by who?
I have no idea myself but this link lists the different variants of German camouflage used scroll down to (German Cammo Swatches):
http://www.artizandesigns.com/painting-guides.php
  I suppose it would depend on the unit in question. I imagine the SS would get first dibs on anything new.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on August 01, 2016, 01:15:14 pm
As you may know, both Germany and Ethiopia were unified from many different states and thus both shared the title of Empire. I'm wondering however why Italy, which was also unified from many different states, doesn't also share the title of Empire?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Thunderstormer on August 01, 2016, 04:27:49 pm
Interesting question.  Idk myself but if I had to guess, it is based on how they each formed and the people that made up said land.

Germany had the HRE(formed by chalrmagne I believe) as its predecessor. 

Italy was united by a king (king of sardinia I think. King emmanuel ll? Been too long)  rome would be it's main empire predecessor and it only became an empire imo after it beat Carthage and took over North Africa and spain.(among other stuff.  yes it was a republic at the time.  That doesn't mean it can't be an empire.)

Can't speak on ethopia.

Tho one has to keep in mind that these titles are whatever they wanted to be called.  You have  titles like king in prussia(later king of Prussia under Frederick the great)  or Austria making itself an empire near the end of the HRE.  The titles are no more than a name  with "prestige" imo
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Duuring on August 01, 2016, 04:34:57 pm
I think choosing the titel of 'King of Italy' better reflected the fact and idea that the Italians were and always had been a singular nation, while Germany, even when it was a unified empire, still had autonomous regions with their own royalties.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: joer5835 on August 01, 2016, 05:39:45 pm
I think Duuring is right. Italy became a centralized state, whereas Germany remained, and still remains so in a sort of way, a federal nation with regional differences that people wanted preserved. It fitted perfectly into the idea of being a succesor to the federalised HRE.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Duuring on August 01, 2016, 07:05:22 pm
Not even sort of. Germany is a federation.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: joer5835 on August 02, 2016, 01:40:15 pm
True, but the distinctive regional identities are no longer as big and pronounced as they were in the days of the Kaiserreich.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: AeroNinja on August 02, 2016, 01:51:59 pm
I'm curious, how old were the most Young Guard soldiers? Or how old did you have to be to become one if you got the experience etc.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Duuring on August 02, 2016, 02:42:11 pm
In 1813-14, Young Guard was filled with conscripts, meaning most were aged 19-20. Before that, a few years experience if any did suffiece, so soldiers were slightly older, around 25-26.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: AeroNinja on August 02, 2016, 02:54:55 pm
That is quite nice. Thanks for the fast answer. :)
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: McPero on August 02, 2016, 04:43:17 pm
How did Hellenic states make 6 meters long pikes without sagging under own weight?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Cara on August 08, 2016, 05:05:13 pm
The biggest pikes (macedonian sarissa) weight 5-6 kilos so it's not that difficult for a man, they usually took it with both hands. For the particular situations of receiving a charge, so maybe hold when a horse was impaled, they stuck it in the ground with a bronze pike.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: William on August 08, 2016, 05:47:34 pm
So I always see men flying in cavalry charges in Total War but how deadly were they to the horses? Would dozens of horses just break their legs and die upon charging into armored columns? Did these numbers change as Europe moved towards organized musketry? Did men really fly when hit by heavy cavalry?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: joer5835 on August 08, 2016, 07:38:14 pm
Charging headon into a line with pikes or braced bayonets was not done. That is just a deathwish.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on August 08, 2016, 08:05:09 pm
Quote from: joer5835 on August 08, 2016, 07:38:14 pm
Charging headon into a line with pikes or braced bayonets was not done. That is just a deathwish.

Yeah. Horses simply refuse to charge into a wall of bayonets.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Cara on August 09, 2016, 01:42:19 pm
Indeed. But your question was more about Line Infantry men flying when hit by horses. This is a bit exagerate in NTW but it was extremely violent. If you read the memories of Milhaud (famous cuirassier commander) or Ségur (hussar and  HQ aide) , you will figure that the combined force * of the cavalry charge crushed the first ranks. Cuirassier did not use their sabre but were charging very close to litteraly run over the line infantry. At Eylau for example, Larrey told us about the human slop resulting of the passage of nearly 10 000 cavalry men on 5 russian régiments.

* As you did maybe for your driving license, you can calculate the Newton force resulting of a 500 kg horse at 30 km/h. This cinetic energy will even increase with the combined charge of a regiment.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: AeroNinja on August 09, 2016, 01:47:47 pm
nvm-
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: AeroNinja on September 07, 2016, 03:13:54 pm
What was Poland's role in the Napoleonic Wars? Like were they allied with France or something else?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on September 07, 2016, 04:28:48 pm
Quote from: NiPhix on September 07, 2016, 03:13:54 pm
What was Poland's role in the Napoleonic Wars? Like were they allied with France or something else?

Well, Poland was partitioned in 1795 between Prussia, Russia and Austria. Napoleon created the Duchy of Warsaw in 1807 and basically treated it as a source of resources and a buffer zone between them and Russia. Although it did act as this satellite state, they did hope to regain their former borders of that of the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth and be elevated to a Kingdom status (they were created as Duchy rather than a Kingdom and had a personal union with Saxony, meaning that Frederick Augustus I of Saxony ruled over them too).

When Napoleon invaded Russia in 1812, the Poles expected to be given back lands belonging to the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and the French Grand Armee contained a large number of Polish troops. Alas, when the French began their retreat the Warsaw Duchy was occupied by Russian troops in January 1813 and it was partitioned again in 1815 in the Congress of Vienna.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: AeroNinja on September 07, 2016, 04:36:47 pm
Yeah that makes sense with Russia and all that. Did Poland give troops or was Napoleon like acting like a tyrant and threatening?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on September 07, 2016, 04:58:13 pm
Many Polish people saw the French as liberating their country from Prussia, Russia and Austria who partitioned them. Even before the Duchy of Warsaw created, many Poles fled to France and enlisted in the Revolutionary French armies. Soon in the French ranks there were thousands of Poles in the army.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: AeroNinja on September 07, 2016, 05:14:12 pm
Oh alright. Thanks for the fast answers. I was just curious about that the French had poles and Poland was also a faction on it's own etc..

Thanks again. :)
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Nick Lazanis on September 09, 2016, 11:31:13 pm
Quote from: McPero on August 02, 2016, 04:43:17 pm
How did Hellenic states make 6 meters long pikes without sagging under own weight?

some say that people then were exceptionally tall, but thats entirely unbased. So yeah what Carabino said
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Peppers on September 11, 2016, 08:35:44 pm
Where there any sort of Polish groups or units the served germany in ww2? Also any names of said people?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Black Watch 1745 on September 11, 2016, 10:59:18 pm
Quote from: Peppers on September 11, 2016, 08:35:44 pm
Where there any sort of Polish groups or units the served germany in ww2? Also any names of said people?
As far as I am aware the Germans did conscript some Poles into their army but not into separate Polish units since they had absorbed much of Poland into the Reich and the rest was considered occupied territory. The last thing they wanted were units with a distinct Polish identity since they were trying to 'Germanize' much of Poland.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: BabyJesus on October 02, 2016, 05:14:59 am
Who were Napoleons best/worst marshals?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Wolff on October 06, 2016, 02:58:49 am
hard to answer. I would say that Davout was probably his best marshall
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Cara on October 06, 2016, 07:06:42 am
Depends what you think is "best". Some, as Ney, were great leader of men in the battle, they inspired the regiments to make the impossible. But Ney was only a lion, he was a poor stratege. One of the best marshal, with both leadership and tactics, was Lannes (who died in 1809).
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on October 06, 2016, 04:49:44 pm
I would probably say his worst was Auguste de Marmont. Of the three marshals created after the Battle of Wagram, Napoleon said Between ourselves, you have not done enough to justify entirely my choice. Also, after his promotion, the French soldiers said:

MacDonald is France's choice.
Oudinot is the army's choice.
Marmont is friendship's choice.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: AeroNinja on October 06, 2016, 05:11:55 pm
Quote from: Carabino on October 06, 2016, 07:06:42 am
Depends what you think is "best". Some, as Ney, were great leader of men in the battle, they inspired the regiments to make the impossible. But Ney was only a lion, he was a poor stratege. One of the best marshal, with both leadership and tactics, was Lannes (who died in 1809).
Maréchal Lannes?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: habsburg on March 14, 2017, 10:33:03 pm
Does anyone know this blue and red unit on the right? He's standing next to the rifleman, so it might be some kind of light infantry

Spoiler
(https://www.fsegames.eu/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffiles.primaplana.cz%2F200000095-78eb479e59%2Fknoetel%2520EClegion%25201800.jpg&hash=1c0dc9c99bd6dd5b5133f0d3349340e97e124d3c)
[close]

Edit: I forgot to give some context- Those are the "Böhmisch-Mährische Legion", an Austrian Landwehr and Garrison unit.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Phillyz on March 15, 2017, 12:20:35 am
Quote from: habsburg on March 14, 2017, 10:33:03 pm
Does anyone know this blue and red unit on the right? He's standing next to the rifleman, so it might be some kind of light infantry

Spoiler
(https://www.fsegames.eu/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffiles.primaplana.cz%2F200000095-78eb479e59%2Fknoetel%2520EClegion%25201800.jpg&hash=1c0dc9c99bd6dd5b5133f0d3349340e97e124d3c)
[close]

Edit: I forgot to give some context- Those are the "Böhmisch-Mährische Legion", an Austrian Landwehr and Garrison unit.
I suspect that it's probably a marine or some sort of skirmisher.

Did some research and found a picture that said what the unit was underneath. It just says Legiounär - 16. Bat. .... Could be a different type of legion uniform.

Spoiler
(https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/9d/28/a3/9d28a3425dda70c7639784f86d693143.jpg)
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Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: habsburg on March 15, 2017, 10:30:24 am
Quote from: Garrel on March 15, 2017, 12:20:35 am
Quote from: habsburg on March 14, 2017, 10:33:03 pm
Does anyone know this blue and red unit on the right? He's standing next to the rifleman, so it might be some kind of light infantry

Spoiler
(https://www.fsegames.eu/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Ffiles.primaplana.cz%2F200000095-78eb479e59%2Fknoetel%2520EClegion%25201800.jpg&hash=1c0dc9c99bd6dd5b5133f0d3349340e97e124d3c)
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Edit: I forgot to give some context- Those are the "Böhmisch-Mährische Legion", an Austrian Landwehr and Garrison unit.
I suspect that it's probably a marine or some sort of skirmisher.

Did some research and found a picture that said what the unit was underneath. It just says Legiounär - 16. Bat. .... Could be a different type of legion uniform.

Spoiler
(https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/9d/28/a3/9d28a3425dda70c7639784f86d693143.jpg)
[close]

That is a very interesting Version of the picture, the text below describes the uniforms of the different Battalions. The 16th Battalion (also Line infantry) was paid by the Earl of Waldstein and because of that he was allowed to chose the colours.
Very informative,
Thanks a lot for your help.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Wolff on March 15, 2017, 01:31:10 pm
Let's all thank God for giving us Mr. Knötel and his great uniformplates
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Seegert on April 06, 2017, 07:17:31 pm
Does anyone know all the ranks and roles of the Bavarian Army during the Napoleonic Wars because I am finding it hard to get anything from it because I know the ranks their are different from other German nations or states such as Austria and Prussia. But yeah if someone knows anything I would be most obliged for the help.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Seegert on April 06, 2017, 07:19:19 pm
Also I find it quite hard to find Bavarian quotes because I have quite a fascination about Bavarian Culture and History but I found not a single quote about war which is kinda of strange in it self.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on April 12, 2017, 02:19:38 pm
Don't know where to post this but i'll just post it here.

Does anyone recommend a book(s) specifically focusing on Napoleon's campaigns/battles rather than his life?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Duuring on April 13, 2017, 11:44:54 pm
Well, '1812' is a classic of course. It's quite a big book, but I enjoyed reading it very much and its frequent anecdotes make it especially interesting to read for re-enactors. It also shows the Russian side of things and (spoiler alert) battles the myth that Russia's retreat into the mainland was some sort of plan or strategy, as was actually just that; A retreat, and one quite badly performed.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on April 14, 2017, 05:04:33 pm
thanks i'll look into it.  :)
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Moldplayer on April 20, 2017, 06:31:27 pm
Quote from: The Mighty McLovin on April 12, 2017, 02:19:38 pm
Don't know where to post this but i'll just post it here.

Does anyone recommend a book(s) specifically focusing on Napoleon's campaigns/battles rather than his life?
Chandler's the Campaigns of Napoleon is apparently the definitive scholarship on Napoleon's battles and campaigns.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Seegert on May 12, 2017, 03:13:03 pm
Knowing that Bavaria was in alliance with France and being German do they have ranks like Prussia, Austria, France, or some of each? Also does anyone know what a list of ranks would be for Bavaria
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: The Mighty McLovin on May 12, 2017, 08:52:31 pm
Quote from: Moldplayer on April 20, 2017, 06:31:27 pm
Quote from: The Mighty McLovin on April 12, 2017, 02:19:38 pm
Don't know where to post this but i'll just post it here.

Does anyone recommend a book(s) specifically focusing on Napoleon's campaigns/battles rather than his life?
Chandler's the Campaigns of Napoleon is apparently the definitive scholarship on Napoleon's battles and campaigns.

Sorry for the late reply. Havent checked back here in a while. Ill have a look at those, thanks for informing me about them!!
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Jelly on June 28, 2017, 05:17:46 pm
any recommendations for a book which focuses on napoleon's campaign in italy?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Bluehawk on July 04, 2017, 02:14:49 pm
Quote from: Seegert on May 12, 2017, 03:13:03 pm
Knowing that Bavaria was in alliance with France and being German do they have ranks like Prussia, Austria, France, or some of each? Also does anyone know what a list of ranks would be for Bavaria

In 1804, a Bavarian regiment's structure was as follows:
Spoiler
1 Regimentsinhaber (a position held by a general)
1 Oberst (Colonel)
1 Obrist-Lieutenant (Lt. Colonel)
2 Majoren (Major)
2 Adjutanten (Adjutant)
2 Junkern (Officer candidates and colour-bearers)
1 Regiments-Quartier-Meister
1 Auditor
1 Regiments-Chirurg (Regimental Surgeon)
2 Unterchirurgen (Junior [Battalion] Surgeons)
2 Chirurg-Prakitanten (Assistant Surgeons)
1 Regiments-Tambour (Regimental Drummer)
10 Hoboisten (10 Oboists)
1 Profos (Provost)
1 Profosenjung (Provost's Assistant)
1 Büchsenmacher (Barrelmaker or Gunsmith)
5 Hauptleute (Captain)
5 [Stabs-]Kapitänen (Captain-Lieutenant, they commanded the 5 Leib-Companies in lieu of the Inhaber, Colonel, Lt. Col. and Majors)
10 Oberlieutenants (First Lieutenant)
20 Unterlieutenants (Second Lieutenant)
10 Feldwebeln (Sergeants Major)
10 Fourieren (Quarters and Forage Sergeant)
20 Sergenten (Sergeant)
60 Korporalen (Corporal)
2 Pfeifen (Fifer)
20 Tambouren (Company Drummer)
120 Gefreiten (Exempt or Senior Private)
2380 Gemeinen (Grenadieren, Füsilieren) (Private)
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Flash forward to 1809 and very little changes:
Spoiler
Oberst
Oberstlieutenant
Major
Regimentsquartiermeister
Regimentschirurg
Adjutant (one Oberlieutenant and one Unter-)
Bataillonschirurg
Chirurgische Praktikant
Junker
Regimentstambour
Hoboist
Büchsenmacher
Profos
Steckenjunge (Provost's assistant)
Hauptmann
Kapitän
Oberlieutenant
Unterlieutenant
Feldwebel
Fourier
Sergent
Korporal
Vizekorporal (Vice Corporal)
Tambour
Pfeifer
Pioniere (Pioneer)
Gefreiter
Gemeiner
Fourierschütze (Forage Guard)
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https://books.google.ca/books?id=EM8OAAAAYAAJ&pg=PA3#v=onepage&q&f=false
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Jelly on August 29, 2017, 01:56:25 pm
concerning french light infantry, what exactly were tirailleurs? i understand that voltigeurs would form the elite light companies of both line and light battalions; chasseurs would form the centre companies of a light battalion; and carabiniers were the equivalent of the line's grenadier companies. so what exactly were tirailleurs? is it simply a broader term for french light infantry? please correct me if i'm wrong with the other stuff i have said too xxx
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Cara on August 29, 2017, 02:04:20 pm
During the NW, "tirailleurs" is referring to a light infantry tactic more than to troops themselves.

For example, a voltigeur officer has to give the ordre "Formez la ligne de tirailleurs" = "Form the line of tirailleurs". Then, any troops can be "tiraileurs" when the ordre is given.

To speak in general for the line (the Guard is very specific), you were right. Voltigeurs are a company in a line infantry bataillon, alongside grenadiers on the left. Chasseurs and carabiniers are troops in the light regiment (la Légère).
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Jelly on August 29, 2017, 02:24:22 pm
cheers cara. with regards to the guard then, what exactly were the tirailleur regiments?
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Duuring on August 29, 2017, 04:42:26 pm
Just regular infantry with a fancy name. Any higher standard then the line infantry they might have had was certainly gone after 1812 when their guard status was prostituted away to appeal to conscripts.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: Cara on August 29, 2017, 05:01:26 pm
Exactly. Moreover, most of the veterans were gone (retirement or death in Russia) when the Guard became a Corps d'Armée. And a lot of NCOs were made officers in the line due to the lack of experienced ones. Its value in combat decreased dramatically...
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: McPero on August 30, 2017, 08:05:42 pm
Quote from: The Mighty McLovin on August 08, 2016, 08:05:09 pm
Quote from: joer5835 on August 08, 2016, 07:38:14 pm
Charging headon into a line with pikes or braced bayonets was not done. That is just a deathwish.

Yeah. Horses simply refuse to charge into a wall of bayonets.
Warhorses could charge anywhere you asked them to. But in middle ages war horse was worth 200 working horses and 4000 sheep so i imagen there wasn't many, and yes no-one would do that.
Title: Re: The ask a Historical Question thread
Post by: McPero on August 30, 2017, 08:06:24 pm
Quote from: Carabino on August 08, 2016, 05:05:13 pm
The biggest pikes (macedonian sarissa) weight 5-6 kilos so it's not that difficult for a man, they usually took it with both hands. For the particular situations of receiving a charge, so maybe hold when a horse was impaled, they stuck it in the ground with a bronze pike.
I'm not saying it was to heavy to hold and use, it was to heavy not to bent under its own weight.