Which important historical figure was nicknamed “the Little Corporal”?

The famous moniker "le Petit Caporal," or the Little Corporal, was bestowed upon the legendary French general and emperor by his own admiring troops. The nickname originated during his early Italian campaign at the Battle of Lodi in 1796. During the intense fighting, the young General Bonaparte personally stepped in to help aim the artillery, a dangerous task typically handled by a non-commissioned officer like a corporal. His soldiers were so impressed by his bravery and hands-on leadership that they gave him this affectionate title, which celebrated his willingness to share their risks on the battlefield.

Contrary to popular belief, the "little" in his nickname was not a comment on his physical stature. At around 5 feet 7 inches, Napoleon was actually slightly taller than the average Frenchman of his era. The term was one of endearment, reflecting the close bond he forged with his men. The persistent myth of his short stature likely originated from a combination of British wartime propaganda, which sought to belittle him, and a confusion between the French and British systems of measurement at the time.

The nickname, therefore, speaks not to his physical size, but to the immense loyalty and respect he commanded as a leader who fought alongside his soldiers. It captured the essence of his early leadership style and became a key part of the legend that followed him from the battlefield to the imperial throne of France.