Battle of Marengo

The Battle of Marengo was a decisive victory for Napoleon Bonaparte that secured control of northern Italy. After a difficult start, the French army, thanks to a counterattack led by Desaix, reversed the situation and inflicted a heavy defeat on the Austrians.

This battle took place within the War of the Second Coalition. Napoleon had just crossed the Alps to resume the offensive against Austrian forces threatening Italy and France.

Napoleon used the strategic maneuver of feint and concentration of forces. After suffering a surprise attack, he organized a firm defense until reinforcements arrived, notably the decisive cavalry charge commanded by Kellermann.

The victory at Marengo allowed France to consolidate its domination of northern Italy and accelerated negotiation of the Treaty of Lunéville in 1801. It also strengthened Napoleon's political position in France.