The twentieth century is usually seen as the century of total war. But as the historian David Bell argues in this landmark work, the phenomenon actually began much earlier, in the era of muskets, cannons, and sailing ships- in the age of Napoleon. In a sweeping, evocative narrative, Bell takes us from campaigns of 'extermination' in the blood-soaked fields of western France to savage street fighting in ruined Spanish cities to central European battlefields where tens of thousands died in a single day. Between 1792 and 1815, Europe plunged into an abyss of destruction. -- From the book jacket.

Officers, gentlemen, and poets -- Conscience, commerce, and history -- Declaring peace; declaring war -- The last crusade -- The exterminating angels -- The lure of the eagle -- Days of glory -- War's red altar.