Chasseurs d'Afrique, 1855

Photograph by Roger Fenton (1819-1869), Crimean War (1854-1856), 1855.

Raised in French North Africa the Chasseurs d'Afrique were amongst the finest French cavalry. Their uniform of red breeches and shako caps, and blue tunic gave them a striking appearance. This, combined with their fighting reputation earned them the nickname of the 'Blue Butchers'. They served with distinction in the Crimea and during the Battle of Balaklava provided valuable support to the left flank of the Light Brigade in their famous but ill-fated charge.