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Michel Ney

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Military Personnel

The Resume

    (1769-December 7, 1815)
    French Marshal
    Fought in most of the major battles of the Napoleonic Wars
    Sided with Napoleon upon his return at the Battle of Waterloo
    Executed by firing squad in Paris for betraying the Bourbon regime (1815)

Why he might be annoying:

    He was known as 'the red head' by his troops not only for the color of his hair, but because of his extraordinary temper.
    His subordinates often had to calm him down in order for him to be able to think soundly and strategically.
    He had trouble getting along with fellow marshals.
    He was relieved from command for insubordination (1811).
    He only worked well when controlled by staff member Antoine Henri Jomini or Napoleon himself.
    He was the spokesman for his fellow marshals who suggested that Napoleon abdicate and let the Bourbon monarchy take over France.
    He was rewarded for assisting Napoleon's departure by retaining his rank and position in France's military.
    When Napoleon returned from exile, the king sent him to take care of it and he promised to bring back Napoleon 'in an iron cage.'
    He ended up joining forces with Napoleon against the crown instead (1815).
    After the defeat of Napoleon, he was executed by firing squad for treason (1815).'
    Some people believe the execution was staged and he escaped to America to become a farmer.

Why he might not be annoying:

    Napoleon referred to him as being 'the bravest of the brave.'
    He had incredible courage and often lead the troops from the front lines.
    He was one of the few officers promoted to rank of marshal after Napoleon took over the government
    He covered Napoleon's flank as he retreated from Russia, which lead to heavy casualties.
    He fought on protecting Napoleon's army, even taking up a musket himself and shooting the Russians at the front lines.
    He was the last to step off of Russian soil during the retreat.
    He often fought despite injuries gained in battle.
    His failures at Waterloo contributed to Napoleon's defeat.
    He requested no blindfold for his execution and he gave the order to shoot.
    Much like George Patton, it was his charisma and his bravery that motivated his men to do great deeds.
    He is a favorite Napoleonic War leader among historians.

Credit: Captain Howdy


Featured in the following Annoying Collections:

Year In Review:

    In 2023, Out of 2 Votes: 100% Annoying
    In 2022, Out of 2 Votes: 100% Annoying
    In 2021, Out of 13 Votes: 61.54% Annoying
    In 2020, Out of 4 Votes: 25.00% Annoying
    In 2019, Out of 17 Votes: 47.06% Annoying
    In 2018, Out of 8 Votes: 50.0% Annoying
    In 2017, Out of 3 Votes: 66.67% Annoying
    In 2016, Out of 1 Votes: 100% Annoying
    In 2015, Out of 10 Votes: 40.0% Annoying
    In 2014, Out of 12 Votes: 66.67% Annoying
    In 2013, Out of 9 Votes: 66.67% Annoying
    In 2012, Out of 12 Votes: 66.67% Annoying
    In 2011, Out of 6 Votes: 83.33% Annoying
    In 2010, Out of 11 Votes: 72.73% Annoying
    In 2009, Out of 25 Votes: 60.0% Annoying
    In 2008, Out of 28 Votes: 75.00% Annoying
    In 2007, Out of 52 Votes: 67.31% Annoying
    In 2006, Out of 100 Votes: 52.00% Annoying
    In 2005, Out of 222 Votes: 63.51% Annoying