IRADJ AMINI, Napoleon and Persia: Franco–Persian Relations under the First Empire, trans. Azizeh Azodi (Richmond, Surrey, England: Curzon Press, 1999). Pp. 245. $34.95 cloth.

Abstract

Napoleon, like many other great conquerors before him, not only dreamed of invading India; he also dreamed of striking a blow against England, France's eternal enemy. Persia was the key to that dream, as it lay en route. Napoleon needed a country nearby in which to build up his troops and a port from which his navy could operate. Therefore, the establishment of friendly relations with Persia was an essential part of Napoleon's strategy. This book is an account of Napoleon's efforts at creating diplomatic relations with Persia and a dream that ended in dust and ashes.