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Michel Ney Letter,

 Collection
Identifier: MSS-138-SC

Scope and Content

The Ney letter was written from Marechal duc d'Elchingen (Michel Ney) to an unnamed recipient, dated August 30, 1811. The letter discusses an allowance for the duchess, presumably Ney's wife, and mentions the possibility of repairs for his mansion in Paris and Chateau at Courdreaux, near Paris. The letter is in French with an English translation.

Dates

  • 1811 Aug. 30

Creator

Language of Materials

English, French

Access Restrictions

The collection is open for research.

Copy Restrictions

Limited duplication of CSWR material is allowed for research purposes. User is responsible for compliance with all copyright, privacy, and libel laws. Permission is required for publication or distribution.

Biographical Information

Michel Ney, Marshal of France, Duke of Elchingen, and Prince of Moscow, was born in 1769 at Saarlouis, France. He was a soldier during the French Revolutionary Wars, rising quickly through the ranks to General in Napoleon's army in 1799. His rise was hastened by incredible bravery on several campaigns during the Revolutionary era. He was married to Aglae Auguie in a marriage that was arranged by Napoleon's wife, Josephine.

Ney was most famous for his protection of the Rear Guard during the disastrous retreat from Russia in 1812. Napoleon called Ney the "Bravest of the Brave", and gave him the titles of Duc d'Elchingen in 1808 and Prince de la Moskowa in 1812. Despite these honors, Ney was known to be reckless and to take offense easily. He had little interest in or knowledge of strategy and did not like politics. Upon Napoleon's banishment to Elba and the restoration of the Bourbon monarchy in 1814, Ney was given a peerage by Louis XVIII because Ney overstated his role in convincing Napoleon to abdicate. Ney betrayed Louis XVIII later that year when, after Napoleon's escape, Ney rejoined his former commander and assisted his return to Paris. Ney fought at Waterloo with Napoleon and after the loss was executed on December 7, 1815 by French authorities for his role in Napoleon's return.

Extent

1 Folder

Abstract

The collection consists of one letter written by Michel Ney, Marshal of France, to an unnamed recipient concerning an allowance for his wife and the upkeep of his properties.
Title
Finding Aid of the Michel Ney Letter, 1811 Aug. 30
Status
Completed
Author
Processed by Tad McIlwraith
Date
©2002
Language of description
English
Script of description
Latin
Language of description note
Finding aid is in English

Revision Statements

  • June 28, 2004: PUBLIC "-//University of New Mexico::Center for Southwest Research//TEXT (US::NmU::MSS 138 SC::Michel Ney Letter)//EN" "nmu1mss138sc.sgml" converted from EAD 1.0 to 2002 by v1to02.xsl (sy2003-10-15).
  • Monday, 20210524: Attribute normal is missing or blank.

Repository Details

Part of the UNM Center for Southwest Research & Special Collections Repository

Contact:
University of New Mexico Center for Southwest Research & Special Collections
University Libraries, MSC05 3020
1 University of New Mexico
Albuquerque NM 87131
505-277-6451