Napoleon I of France - Army Quotes

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At the beginning of a campaign it is important to consider whether or not to move forward; but when one has taken the offensive it is necessary to maintain it to the last extremity. However skilfully effected a retreat may be, it always lessens the morale of an army, since in losing the chances of success, they are remitted to the enemy. A retreat, moreover, costs much more in men and materials than the bloodiest engagements, with this difference, also, that in a battle the enemy loses practically as much as you do; while in a retreat you lose and he does not.

Napoleon I of France
What are the conditions that make for the superiority of an army? Its internal organization, military habits in officers and men, the confidence of each in themselves; that is to say, bravery, patience, and all that is contained in the idea of moral means.

Napoleon I of France
An army ought to be ready every moment to offer all the resistance of which it is capable.

Napoleon I of France
Nothing is so contrary to military rules as to make the strength of your army known, either in the orders of the day, in proclamations, or in the newspapers.

Napoleon I of France
Never march by flank in front of an army in position. This principle is absolute.

Napoleon I of France
The art of war consists in being always able, even with an inferior army, to have stronger forces than the enemy at the point of attack or the point which is attacked.

Napoleon I of France
An army which cannot be reenforced is already defeated.

Napoleon I of France
It is the business of cavalry to follow up the victory, and to prevent the beaten army from rallying.

Napoleon I of France