It can be difficult to know where one period ends and another begins. Although Waterloo marks the end of the Napoleonic period Napoleon Bonaparte's influence continued long after. Which is why I have no hesitation in writing about a war that took place in the 1860's here in FIRST EMPIRE.

Napoleon III was definitely influenced by the original Napoleon. French involvement in the Crimean war was due to his attempt to restore French military glory, and then French troops were landed in Algeria. Equally interesting was the French commitment to what has become known as the Mexican Adventure. French troops were sent to support the French-installed Emperor Maximilian of Mexico.

And for those who fancy trying to out do Napoleon III, IRREGULAR MINIATURES have brought out a new range of 6mm figures. This covers he Mexican adventure although many of the figures could be used in Europe or Algiers.

Rather than different nations IRREGULAR list EUROPEAN FORCES - as most of the combatants in Mexico wore the same sort of uniform. Most differences can be painted on and in this smaller scale lace, buttons and such details can be safely ignored. So the Europeans wear the standard uniform for the 1860's although both cavalry and infantry have variants wearing campaign dress including the sombrero. If you have Crimean War French they would fit in neatly, with a few figures wearing sombreros/campaign order to break up the regularity.

The Mexicans have their regular forces, as well as the peasant volunteers we're so familiar with from the various films. All in white and easy to paint. As the American Civil War closed groups and individuals from both armies drifted south over the border to aid each side. Again Hollywood has given us many examples of gunfighters fighting for a cause and/or money.

This is the period where the Foreign Legion won it's most famous battle honour. But even they have trouble trying to contain the Mexicans. That's why it's an interesting period to game. The French, with their Austro-Hungarian and Belgian allies have the best troops and the better weapons. But they are the invader in a hostile land and as history reminds us they do not win.

The range of figures is, as always up to the high standard that IRREGULAR set themselves. The mounted French officer and standard bearer are excellent and have already been seconded to my ACW army. Some of the other kepi clad figures will almost certainly find their way there as well. IRREGULAR have recently raised the price of a strip of foot figures to 13p for the first time in years. Still excellent value and first class figures. Full details of the range are available from IRREGULAR.

More Reviews

Eagle Miniatures 25mm Napoleonics (figure review)
Napoleon's Campaigns in Miniature (book review)
Napoleonic Notes & Queries (magazine review)
6mm Irregular Miniatures and Napoleon III (figure review)