Manfredo Cagni

Born in Asti in 1834, Manfredo Cagni was an Italian general and writer. Sources describe him as a veteran of the Crimean War, the Second and Third Italian Wars of Independence, and the Eritrean campaign, and note that he received two silver medals for military valor.

Alongside his army career, he wrote books, including Egitto, which has been described as a late-19th-century historical account of Egypt covering its history, culture, geography, and major cities. That mix of first-hand experience, military discipline, and curiosity about the wider world helps explain the practical, observant tone associated with his work.

He died in Asti in 1907. He is also remembered as the father of Admiral Umberto Cagni, the Italian explorer and naval officer.