Finally, at 11:30, Napoleon’s artillery opened fire. His battle plan was simple. Wellington’s men occupied the outlying farm buildings on both flanks, and the crest of a ridge in the center ...

Although initially recommended for naval service because of his knack for mathematics, Napoleon was soon placed on track for a career in the prestigious artillery branch of the French army.

The Imperial Guard was a small, elite army, directly under Napoleon’s control. Like the corps, it had infantry, cavalry and artillery. It was comprised of the best veteran soldiers from every ...