Set up in 1937, the Souvenir Napoléonien is the largest Napoleonic society in Europe. It was awarded charitable status (reconnue d'utilité publique) by ministerial decree on 5 November 1982. Its aim is to study and promote interest in the French period of history that  followed the Revolution, i.e. the First and Second Empires, and in the Imperial family.

               

         

How Napoleon is perceived by young people today by Dimitri Casali

Dimitri Casali is a historian, teacher, music lover and member of the Institute, and the author of around thirty historical works for the general public and young people, including: Napoléon par les peintres and the Larousse de Napoléon, a reference work. He is the creator of an innovative teaching method: Historock, which helps to get young people interested in history through music. It is designed mainly for children between the ages of 6 and 12 and presents great men and significant events from Antiquity to the present day. This new concept has given rise to musical shows. He will present the way in which Napoleon is perceived by young people today.

This lecture will be followed by a book-signing session.

Louis Napoleon Bonaparte – the training of an emperor by Christian Fileaux

2 October 2010, 5.30-7.30 pm

Christian Fileaux has been National President of the Souvenir Napoléonien since 3 December 2008. He is also Secretary of the Fondation Napoléon. His lecture will focus on the youth of Napoleon III and the first days of the Second Empire.

The Lies of Waterloo by Bernard Coppens

6 November 2010, 5-7 pm

Bernard Coppens specialises in the period from 1789-1815 and has published historical documents and a number of studies on the battle of Waterloo. A researcher and historical illustrator, his work has led him to take a different view of the events. Starting from the premise that history is never neutral, he is convinced of the necessity to rid it of the distortions introduced (not without reason) during the 19^th and 20^th centuries. He will present his latest work: “Waterloo, Les mensonges” (Waterloo, the lies). This lecture will be followed by a book-signing session.

                                      

Bonaparte crossing the Alps by Jacques Nicaise

20 November 2010, 5-7 pm

Jacques Nicaise is a member of Souvenir Napoléonien and an eminent lecturer: He will present his view on the subject of Bonaparte crossing the Alps.

           

                         

The lectures will take place at the Waterloo Battlefield Visitors’ Centre (Lion Mound)