Radetzky is one of my favorite characters.
During the 1813-1814 campaigns he was instrumental in keeping the allies on track. Working with two emperors and a king, all with coterie of hangers on and yes men, Napoleon often seemed the least of his worries.
He was three years older than Wellington and won his last victory in 1849 at the age of 83.
His last child was born in 1846 to his lovely Italian mistress, his fourth illegitimate child.
Living the life of en grande seigneur, he always had money troubles and went bankrupt three times. The third time, he appealed to the Imperial government to pay off his spectacular debt. When presented to the Crown Council, the Finance Minister warned this would unbalance an already insolvent budget. Immediately, young emperor Franz Joseph replied "it is cheaper than losing a war."
Had he lived one more year, he would have fought his last battle at the age of 93. Considering the ineptitude of Napoleon III, he probably would have won.
And, of course, he could dance.
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=0S6tr_M0tWM
"These things must be done delicately-- or you hurt the spell." - The Wicked Witch of the West.
"We've got the torpedo damage temporarily shored up, the fires out and soon will have the ship back on an even keel. But I would suggest, sir, that if you have to take any more torpedoes, you take 'em on the starboard side." Pops Healy, DCA USS Lexington.