Napoleon's line infantry was founded upon that of the Ancien Régime. A total re-organisation began on 1 January 1791 with the abolition of the old regimental titles, and over the next two years an increasing number of conscript and volunteer battalions were formed. Their quality varied from the proficiency of the early National Guard regiments to the untrained and ill-equipped rabble of the levée. To combine the discipline and steadiness of the regular army with the revolutionary fervour of the new army, the Amalgame was decreed on 21 February; by this measure each regular battalion became the nucleus of a new Demi-Brigade. Packed with specially commissioned artwork, maps and diagrams, the Men-at-Arms series is an unrivalled illustrated reference on the history, organisation, uniforms and equipment of the world's military forces, past and present. Philip Haythornthwaite is an internationally respected author and historical consultant specializing in the military history, uniforms and equipment of the 18th and 19th centuries. His main area of research covers the Napoleonic Wars. He has written some 40 books, including more than 20 Osprey titles, and numerous articles and papers on military history – but still finds time to indulge in his other great passion, cricket. Bryan Fosten was born in 1928, the son of a Master Military Embroiderer and a Court Embroidress. He served in the army in Egypt and Palestine and returned to follow the printing trade. From 1973, he devoted himself to military research and illustration. He was the founding editor of the innovative magazine Tradition and has written and illustrated many books, often in collaboration with his late brother, Donald Fosten. Used Book in Good Condition