Q&A · 47:49-48:31

Davout and Massena as alternatives to Napoleon

A personal comparison favours Davout and Massena over Napoleon while leaving the choice between them open.

Military Command Napoleonic Wars

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Question

Which of Napoleon's generals deserves to be considered the best?

Short answer

The choice is between Davout and Massena, with a personal preference for Massena but no firm decision between them.

Notes

Davout and Massena are both judged better generals than Napoleon in this comparison. There is a personal soft spot for Massena, but Davout remains an equally serious choice and the ranking between the two is left unresolved.