Remnants of the Grande Armée Expelled from Russia
December 14th, 1812
December 14th, 1812

How Long Ago?
212 years, 3 months, 1 day ago
Location
Russia
Category
Military & Warfare
War/Conflict
Napoleonic Wars
People
- Napoleon Bonaparte
Links & References
Tags
Remnants of the Grande Armée Expelled from Russia
The remnants of Napoleon Bonaparte's Grande Armée withdrew from Russia after a harrowing campaign marked by severe losses due to harsh winter conditions, combat, and logistical failures. The Russian strategy of scorched earth and guerrilla warfare systematically undermined the French forces. By December, the once-mighty army had been decimated, with only a fraction returning home as they crossed the Berezina River, suffering from exposure and starvation.
Napoleon led over 600,000 troops into Russia
Russian strategies included scorched earth tactics
Severe winter conditions caused heavy losses
Only a fraction returned after the retreat
What Happened?
During the catastrophic French invasion of Russia, beginning in June 1812, Napoleon Bonaparte assembled what was known as the Grande Armée, a force exceeding 600,000 men. The campaign was initially marked by rapid advances and significant victories against the Russian armies. However, the Russian military adopted a scorched earth strategy, retreating deep into their territory while destroying resources that could support the invaders. This tactic left the French army with little food or shelter as they advanced further into the vast expanses of Russia.
As winter approached, the challenges for the Grande Armée intensified. The brutal cold, compounded by the effects of starvation and the guerrilla tactics of the Russian troops, began to whittle away at the morale and strength of the French forces. The turning point came with the disastrous retreat that began in October after the Russian capital, Moscow, was reached but not sustained. The retreat was marked by several harrowing crossings, including the Berezina River, where thousands of soldiers perished in both combat and from the harsh elements.
On December 14, the remnants of the Grande Armée, now reduced to a mere fraction of their original number, were expelled from Russian territory. The once-mighty forces that had marched confidently into Russia had been decimated, with only around 100,000 troops managing to escape. This withdrawal marked a pivotal moment in the Napoleonic Wars, as it not only signaled the collapse of French ambitions in Russia but also greatly emboldened the coalition of European powers against Napoleon's rule.
Why Does it Matter?
The expulsion of the Grande Armée from Russia marked a significant turning point in the Napoleonic Wars and European history at large. This event showcased the vulnerabilities within Napoleon’s strategy and logistics, leading to a decline in his influence across Europe. The catastrophic losses suffered during this campaign resulted in a renewed determination among the allied forces to oppose and ultimately defeat Napoleon, reshaping the balance of power in Europe for years to come.
Discover More Historic Events from December 14th
Total Solar Eclipse Across South Pacific and South America
A total solar eclipse occurred with a path crossing the South Pacific Ocean, southern South America, and the South Atlantic Ocean, captivating millions. This astronomical phenomenon offered viewers a chance to witness the moon completely obscuring the sun, creating a dramatic darkening of the sky during daytime. The totality was best observed from regions in Chile and Argentina, where clear skies provided optimal conditions for eclipse chasers and local inhabitants alike.
Continue ReadingCoup Attempt in South Sudan Sparks Violence
Conflict erupted in South Sudan following a reported coup attempt against President Salva Kiir. Armed clashes broke out between rival factions within the army in Juba, leading to widespread violence and significant casualties. The situation escalated quickly as allegations of attempted overthrow led to retaliatory actions from government forces, resulting in hundreds of deaths and displacements among civilians. International concern grew as humanitarian organizations scrambled to respond to the emerging crisis.
Continue ReadingSandy Hook Elementary School Shooting Incident
On a quiet morning in Sandy Hook, Connecticut, a gunman entered Sandy Hook Elementary School and opened fire, killing twenty children and six adults before turning the weapon on himself. The shooter, Adam Lanza, had previously committed a violent act at his home, resulting in the death of his mother. The event shocked the nation and raised urgent discussions regarding gun control and mental health.
Continue ReadingMillau Viaduct Inauguration Near Millau
The Millau Viaduct, celebrated as the tallest bridge in the world, was officially inaugurated near Millau, France. This remarkable structure, designed by architect Norman Foster and engineer Michel Virlogeux, stretches over the Tarn River valley and symbolizes modern engineering prowess. The inauguration event attracted significant attention, showcasing the viaduct's sleek design and impressive height of 343 meters (1,125 feet). It serves as a crucial transport link, improving connectivity and reducing travel times in the region.
Continue ReadingMusharraf Survives Assassination Attempt
Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf survived two bomb attacks while traveling in a motorcade in Rawalpindi. The first bomb exploded as his convoy passed over a bridge, leading to a second bomb detonating shortly after. The attempts were linked to his policies supporting the U.S. in the war on terror. Miraculously, Musharraf was unharmed, though the attacks resulted in casualties among security personnel and civilians.
Continue ReadingDevastating Flash Floods in Vargas, Venezuela
Torrential rains caused catastrophic flash floods in Vargas, Venezuela, leading to substantial loss of life and destruction. Thousands of homes were swept away, and the entire state infrastructure collapsed due to the overwhelming force of water. This natural disaster unfolded rapidly, fueled by prolonged heavy rain and poor land management practices, affecting the lives of tens of thousands of citizens.
Continue Reading