Michel Ney was a prominent French military leader during the Napoleonic Wars. Born in 1769, he rose through the ranks to become one of Napoleon Bonaparte's most trusted marshals. Known for his bravery and tactical skills, Ney earned the nickname "the bravest of the brave" for his fearless leadership on the battlefield. After Napoleon's defeat in 1814, Ney initially pledged loyalty to the restored monarchy but later rejoined Napoleon during the Hundred Days. Following Napoleon's final defeat at the Battle of Waterloo, Ney was captured, tried for treason, and executed in 1815, leaving a complex legacy in French military history.