Lithuanian Soldiers in the French Imperial Guard of Napoleon Bonaparte A Presentation by Historian, Educator, Lawyer, & Collector Richard Jasinski

The focus of this presentation is the origin and evo­lution of Napoleon Bonaparte’s Imperial Guard which expanded to include two exclusively Lithuanian regi­ments. Organization, unit histories, uniforms, equip­ment, battles and notable Lithuanian personalities will be discussed.
Learn how Lithuanians participated in arguably the most successful light cavalry charge in military his­tory, how they repeatedly rescued and saved Napo­leon from his enemies, how they were awarded titles of nobility, estates, pensions, and membership in the French Legion of Honor, and how and why Lithu­anians joined Napoleon in exile on the island of Elba. Finally, related remarks will be made about the women in Napoleon’s life. His two wives and his secret love: a Polish countess. Included will be the role of the guard in his personal life.
You will see: Unique and original equipment, artifacts, documents, prints, and drawings.

These programs are made possible in part by grants from the Illinois Arts Council and ECPC