1-156-157 - Art Media/Heritage Images

Napoleon at Arcola Bridge, 15 November 1796. Napoleon Bonaparte (1769-1821) holding the French flag and personally leading an assault across Arcola Bridge in a three-day battle against the Austrians in northern Italy. The span was the centre of fighting as the French desperately tried to force the Austrians backwards. On the final day, the French generals Massena and Augereau forced their way across the river and the defenders, fearful of being trapped, quickly retreated.