Napoleon Bonaparte was one of the finest military leaders in history. His clever tactics brought a series of victories that allowed him to rule over large parts of Europe over 200 years ago. However, it was the weather that was to prove instrumental in his downfall. He invaded Russia in the summer of 1812 and captured Moscow, following the Russians deeper into the country. By November, a lack of supplies forced Napoleon and his army to retreat, and the extremely harsh winter killed many thousands of troops as they returned to France.
In the year 1812, the infamous Napoleon assembled the largest army Europe had ever seen, more than 600 000 men strong. His plan was to march into Russia, and his last concern was the approaching winter chills. Napoleon confidently captured Moscow; his soldiers pillaged the city, stealing jewels, furs, and war prizes. However, it was too soon to be celebrating – since Napoleon had failed to consider how very cold Russia can be. As Napoleon’s army marched away with their prizes, temperatures dropped to minus 40 degrees Celsius. Many soldiers died of frostbite and starvation, and in one 24-hour period 50 000 horses died from the cold – leaving men to struggle on foot through the icy environment. Even with their stolen furs to wrap themselves up in – of the 600 000 men who marched into Russia, only 150 000 limped home. This was the beginning of the end for Napoleon’s empire, and heralded the emergence of Russia as a power in Europe.
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