Who was the French General convicted of treason by Napoleon?

Answer 1

Michel Ney (1769-1815) was a very trusted, loyal and great commanders of Napoleon. During the failed attempt of Napoleon to capture Russia in 1813 he took the rearguard action to ensure safe retreat of Napoleon and the bulk of army. He was the last soldier to leave Russian Soil during that retreat and was awarded the title of "bravest of the brave marshalls".

In 1814 when Napoleon's enemies forced Napoleon back into France Ney alongwith few other Generals convinced Napoleon to abdicate the throne of France for France's good. He was rewarded by the Bourbon Monarchy to retain his rank and position. Ney's loyalty and affection remained with Napoleon and he perfirmed his duty as a French Soldier.

In 1815 when Napoleon escaped from Elba to land in France to fight again, Ney was sent to fight and capture Napoleon. But instead of fighting against Napoleon Ney's old loyalties returned and he fought by the side of Napoleon at Waterloo.

After Napoleon's defeat and exile Ney was tried for treason and was found guilty and executed by firing squad. Napoleon did not have anything to do with this action.

Ney could have, and would have been spared if the Duke of Wellington had intervened, He did not on the grounds that it was an internal French problem that required a French solution.