On This Day: The siege of Mantua ends after eight months when Count Dagobert Sigmund von... (1797)

On February 2, 1797: The siege of Mantua ends after eight months when Count Dagobert Sigmund von Wurmser surrenders the fortress of Mantua to Napoleon Bonaparte. The fall of Mantua secures French control over Northern Italy and marks the beginning of the conclusion of the Italian campaign of 1796-1797, and sets the stage for the end of the War of the First Coalition.

This historical event can serve as a powerful sermon illustration about God's creation and human discovery. Consider using it when preaching about discovery.