So, while doing some research into the ideological origins and precursors of 20th century fascism, I came across this book which seems to be rather infamous and controversial. I have only read second hand about its claims so far, including that Napoleon supposedly used primitive gas chambers in the form of ship holds and sulphur dioxide.

The quote, that Napoleon "[...] asked himself rationally the question how to eliminate, in as short a time as possible, and with a minimum of cost and personnel, a maximum of people described as scientifically inferior" appears in articles as well.

But in addition to it, there is a lot of contention and controversy, claiming there are dubious and only few sources, etc.

Now, this does seem plausible, it's not like revision of history can't happen, but it should bring with it good and new sources. But I also know that when the subject matter is a personality that is still important to the national myth of France, as well as colonial crimes, it's still also possible that some established historians aren't that willing to entertain the thought at all.

The book also seems to be old enough that any historians interested in it would have done some more study on it. So I'd love to hear if someone on here who is knowledgeable enough could assess what is to be made of these claims, and the connection drawn from Napoleon, Haiti, genocide and the study of industrial efficiency in murdering as many people as possible.