Maida (Sicily Campaign) - 4 July 1806
Historical Background
French forces had invaded the Kingdom of Naples in the spring of 1806. By July, the French had crushed all Neapolitan resistance except for an uprising in Calabria and a garrison at Gaeta. The British decided to organise an expedition into Calabria to further the insurrection against the French, and prevent any potential invasion of Sicily.
A British force of over 5,000 men commanded by Major-General John Stuart sailed from Messina on 27 June. At the same time a French force of 6,000 men under the command of General Jean Reynier, the only French force in Calabria, moved to confront them.
On 4 July 1806, the two combatants met on the plain of Maida. As Reynier advanced, the British held their fire, then released a series of devastating volleys at point-blank range. The French faltered, and when the British charged at bayonet point, were completely routed. The entire action lasted only fifteen minutes. Stuart then marched south and after a series of minor skirmishes, returned to Sicily, as he felt his force was too weak to go onto a full offensive. His victory was much feted, and he received the Order of the Bath and an annuity of £1,000 a year from the British, and the title "Count of Maida" from King Ferdinand of Naples.
The stage is set. The battle lines are drawn and you are in command. Can you change history?
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Set-Up Order
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Battle Notes
British Army
Commander: Sir John Stuart
5 Command Cards
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| 6 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 |
French Army
Commander: Jean Louis Reynier
5 Command Cards
Move First 
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| 5 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 3 |
Victory
4 Banners
Special Rules
The Limato River is impassable except at the ford.
