A brief summary of the War of 1812 for children. Advance of the Grand Army
Patriotic War 1812
Napoleon is extinct!.. How incredible these words would have seemed if someone had uttered them before 1812! To Europe, deafened by the thunder of his victories, subjugated by his power, it seemed that his immortality was connected with the greatest power that Napoleon achieved at that time. But before you, dear readers, read about the wonderful descent of this extraordinary earthly greatness, you must understand how high he was exalted.
The Peace of Tilsit can be called the beginning of the most brilliant era of Napoleon: it destroyed the alliance between Russia and England and thereby destroyed last chance, capable of withstanding the all-destructive force of the conqueror of Europe; Russia united with France, and the British no longer had any hope. Their trade, from which they lived, began to be exposed to the greatest danger, since, under the terms of the Peace of Tilsit, all European harbors were closed to English ships. In vain did the London cabinet try to secretly incite states to break with France: everyone was afraid of its power, which was further strengthened as a result of the alliance with Russia. Only Portugal, which was completely dependent on the British in trade matters, submitted to their wishes and rashly decided to resist Napoleon: its harbors opened to English ships.
As soon as news of this was received in France, the fate of Portugal could be considered sealed, because French troops immediately went there. Nothing came as easily to Napoleon as the conquest of Portugal. Before his army reached Lisbon, the royal family, due to some incomprehensible feeling of hopelessness or unwillingness to defend their rights with arms in their hands, left the capital and went to their American possessions. After such an act by the rulers of the state, the people could not resist, and the French troops, without firing a single shot, entered Lisbon, and the French Emperor, without any preliminary negotiations with the Portuguese court, solemnly announced to Europe that “the house of Braganza had ceased to reign.” His intentions included the division of Portugal and the annexation of most of its regions to France. This required the consent of the Spanish king, a neighbor and close relative of the Portuguese royal family.
Banner of the Moscow militia
The weak Charles IV was then on the throne of Spain. His consent was not difficult to obtain: the minister who ruled him, Godoy, known as the Prince of Peace, had long been at the disposal of France. But Portugal alone was not enough for Napoleon: he wanted to take possession of Spain, and, unfortunately, he managed to do this at first.
Godoy, for reasons of his own benefit, upset the harmony in the royal family: he convinced the weak king that the heir to the throne, Prince Ferdinand of Austria, was participating in a conspiracy against him. The irritated father ordered the prince, who was completely innocent, to be tried. The people stood up for Ferdinand, imprisoned the cunning minister, and the frightened king, having lost his leader in him, renounced the throne and gave it to Ferdinand.
But Napoleon did not need to restore harmony in the royal family, and French troops hastened to break it. They entered Madrid, and on the same day Charles IV announced that his abdication was forced and that he again assumed the crown.
Such an announcement, of course, was the work of Napoleon. Everyone was convinced of this at the same time, because the king solemnly asked for a meeting with the French Emperor to discuss the disordered state of his state.
Napoleon seemed to be waiting for this occasion, so convenient for him to begin to manage the affairs of Spain according to his will, and hurried to the place of the meeting appointed in Bayonne. The powerful intermediary invited Prince Ferdinand there as well. And what were the results of these solemn negotiations? Ferdinand, with filial obedience, returned the crown to his father, which had been entrusted to him, and Charles IV ceded all rights to it to Napoleon! It is incomprehensible how a person who wanted to make his name great and immortal could act so inconsistently with everything that gives true immortality and that bears the imprint of true greatness! Not only did Napoleon force the weak king to such a humiliating compliance for the royal honor; he called again yuntu, or a meeting of 150 noble Spaniards, and invited them to choose one of their brothers as king. Struck by the compliance of their king, the Spaniards, as if in some kind of daze, obeyed and chose Joseph, who was already the King of Naples at that time. But this movement from one throne to another did not make him think about who was distributing these thrones so indiscriminately. Joseph arrived in Madrid, and Napoleon's son-in-law*, Murat, took his place in Naples.
Medal for officers of the Zemstvo army
But the conquest of Spain and Portugal, which at first seemed so easy for Napoleon, soon turned into the most difficult task that he had ever faced. For no more than a month, the people, with some kind of insensibility, obeyed the command of their monarch, who had surrendered to the power of Napoleon. This calm, or, better said, this silence before the storm continued even when the Spaniards already knew that Prince Ferdinand, after the Bayonne conferences, had been taken captive to France. Everyone was worried about him, they called him royal martyr, but the murmur was not yet heard too clearly, everyone seemed to be waiting for an opportunity that soon presented itself: a rumor spread that the French wanted to kidnap and take the last one to France infanta- the young Prince Francis, who left for Brazil with the Portuguese court. The appearance of this rumor seemed to be a signal for the uprising of the entire Spanish people. On May 2, 1808, it spread throughout the country, and from that day began the cruel, terrible struggle of the Spaniards with the oppressors of their Fatherland. For the first time they exclaimed on this day: “Long live Ferdinand VII!” Death to the French! And from that day on the defeat of the French in Spain began! All classes of the people, not excluding monks and women, armed themselves, openly, secretly, with daggers, poison, in a word, with everything by possible means they killed the French and, of course, died themselves. But such a death did not frighten the Spaniards; they looked for it and considered it a holy offering; they were sure that behind her awaited them a crown of martyrs dying for the Faith, the Sovereign and the Fatherland. The war that they waged from that time was not like an ordinary war: it was a guerrilla war, that is, a war that was waged by small detachments, without regular troops, without battles according to all the rules, or better said, it was a Patriotic war, a people's war , where they fought incessantly, where they fought with whatever they could get, where all military difficulties were endured with iron patience.
These warriors, fearless, inexorable, who joined the ranks of those fighting from all ranks, conditions, even often of both sexes, were called guerrillas *. Their troops, insignificant in the eyes of Napoleon, were the first to shake his gigantic power. Despite all the efforts of the French troops scattered throughout Spain, it was impossible to exterminate these cruel avengers for royal glory and popular honor. The French destroyed them mercilessly, but in the place of these dead, new avengers appeared, who, over the bodies of their dead fathers and brothers, mothers and sisters, swore new hatred for the French and fulfilled their oaths. In a word, the French did not have a peaceful refuge in all of Spain: everywhere death awaited them in the most terrible forms invented by the offended people. However, the French still held out in Spain, still owned Madrid, still called Spain the country they had conquered, and Joseph was called the Spanish King. It was difficult to hold their positions, especially since the Portuguese followed the example of the Spaniards and, in addition, they were under the protection of the British, who sent their army to help them.
Banners of the 6th regiment of the Chernigov militia
For the first time, Napoleon's warriors experienced the bitterness of failure, and for the first time their happy commander did not know how to pacify his enemies. But he was not only frightened by the Spaniards and Portuguese, whom he still did not consider serious enemies: he was worried about military preparations in Austria, which continued throughout 1808. In addition to a large army, the Austrian Emperor, determined to eradicate the memory of the humiliation of the dignity of his empire during the last struggle with Napoleon, convened zemstvo militia. Each of his warriors sought to fulfill the wishes of the sovereign, and these warriors were about 350,000 people.
Such a multitude of people, determined to fight a desperate battle, could not help but instill anxiety in those who were threatened by their attack. The Emperor of the French was most afraid that Russia would not unite with Austria, which was choosing a convenient time to take revenge for the insults inflicted on it. And for this he needed to see Emperor Alexander, he needed to make sure of his peaceful disposition, and he invited the sovereign to congress to the Saxon city of Erfurt.
Alexander, magnanimous, noble, who religiously observed the terms of the treaties he concluded, announced to Napoleon that the terms of the Peace of Tilsit would be fully fulfilled as long as the French too will carry them out.
Reassured by this formulation of the question, Napoleon returned from Erfurt to Paris with new plans to subjugate the Spaniards and Austrians. France had to recruit fresh troops for him, the Confederation of the Rhine had to field an army of one hundred thousand. Happiness did not leave the spoiled pet: Napoleon’s wishes were fulfilled. The Spaniards felt sadly that the number of French troops had increased in their Fatherland, but the noble defenders still continued their resistance, although their numbers were greatly reduced every day. As for the Austrians, their long and expensive preparations were in vain: their war, which began with the French in April 1809, despite the large army of the Austrians, went unsuccessfully and ended in October of the same year with the Peace of Vienna, which was as unprofitable as and the previous ones: due to its difficult conditions, Austria was losing three and a half million inhabitants. Salzburg, Inviertel, Braunau and Gausruk went to Bavaria; parts of Carinthia, Carniolia, Dalmatia and Croatia formed the new Illyrian provinces, given to France and extending the possessions of this gigantic state to the borders of Turkey; Eastern Galicia and its one and a half million inhabitants were annexed to the Duchy of Warsaw.
General Savary. Engraving early XIX century
Anne Savary (1774–1833) - French count. He was an associate of Napoleon and headed the Ministry of Police during the Napoleonic Empire. After his death, memoirs* about the French Revolution remained.
The annexation of Galicia and, as a result, the increase in the Duchy of Warsaw violated the terms of the Peace of Tilsit, which prohibited the expansion of the territory of this duchy as an area neighboring Russia and hostile to it at that time. This was the first spark of disagreement between the Russian and French cabinets, and it clarified Napoleon's secret plans to Emperor Alexander. The sovereign then, through the French envoy Caulaincourt, asked to convey to the emperor that he would not be the first to violate the terms of the peace agreement, but would repel the slightest attack. Caulaincourt tried to assure the sovereign of Napoleon's friendly and peaceful disposition, nevertheless, suspicion remained in Alexander's soul from that time, and the actions of the Emperor of the French confirmed them more and more.
Soon a new circumstance increased the displeasure of the courtyards with each other. Napoleon, strengthening his greatness every year, decided to give it even more splendor and establish it forever, and for this he entered into marriage with the princess of one of the famous courts of Europe.
But he had a wife for a long time, and the wife he crowned was Empress Josephine. Noble and generous, she dearly loved Napoleon and therefore did not refuse his offer to sacrifice her happiness for the good of France, for which, according to the emperor, an heir to his name was needed. Josephine agreed to divorce her husband, and the divorce was a matter of a few days.
General Caulaincourt. Engraving.
Louis Caulaincourt (1773–1827) - Marquis, French aristocrat, associate of Napoleon. In 1807–1811 Caulaincourt was ambassador to St. Petersburg.
Having received permission from the clergy to enter into a new marriage, Napoleon turned his gaze, as insatiable as his ambition, to the most famous courts of Europe, and Alexander was conveyed the desire of the Emperor of the French to receive the hand of one of the Grand Duchesses, his August sisters. For a long time without receiving any response to the proposal, which, in his opinion, could only evoke pleasant feelings at any court, Napoleon lost patience and became indignant. Convinced that the answer could not be positive, he hastened to make an offer to the Alexandrian court.
In Vienna, where the recent presence of a powerful conqueror was still felt in everything, in Vienna, so recently conquered by his irresistible force, it was impossible to respond to the proposal of the Emperor of the French otherwise than with consent, and the daughter of Francis I, Archduchess Marie-Louise, was sacrificed peace of Europe. Napoleon, having become her husband, was proud not only of the greatness of his deeds, but also of the celebrity of the family with which he united his family, which was to begin a new one and, in his opinion, the first of the royal generations.
From that time on, even more arrogant plans appeared in his soul. To his insatiable ambition, now completely satisfied, was added the desire to take revenge for the insult inflicted on him by the Russian court, and the thought of a world empire began to occupy him more and more, especially since happiness, which had always spoiled him, gave him a son - an heir, to whom he could pass on the majestic throne he had created. In March 1811, an heir appeared, named the King of Rome even before his birth, who from the first minutes of his life was surrounded by such splendor as only his admiring and powerful father was capable of. With full confidence in his happy destiny, which previously did not seem as favorable to him as it does now, Napoleon decided to begin to fulfill his ambitious plans.
The break with Russia was supposed to be the first step towards world dominion, because only Russia represented an obstacle to the powerful conqueror. But Alexander, valuing the peace of Europe, so often and so disastrously violated over the years, did not start a dispute, although the violation of the Tilsit Peace in relation to the Warsaw duchies and gave him a reason to do this. Napoleon found a new opportunity to challenge the magnanimous monarch of Russia.
In 1810 - shortly after the famous marriage of the Emperor of the French - new possessions were annexed to his empire: Holland, half Westphalia, part of Tyrol, a country between North and Baltic seas and the free cities of Bremen, Hamburg and Lubeck. Among the lands illegally appropriated by Napoleon were the possessions of the Duke Holstein-Oldenburg, who was closely related to Emperor Alexander (after all, Grand Duchess Ekaterina Pavlovna was married to the Prince of Holstein-Oldenburg, and he, at one time, was the military governor of Yaroslavl, Tver and Nizhny Novgorod). At first, out of respect for this relationship, the Duke was offered an exchange of his possessions for some other region belonging to France, but when the Duke did not agree to part with the subjects with whom his house had been associated for ten centuries, Napoleon offered him a principality in exchange for his possessions Erfurt and sent the French to Oldenburg commissioners for the sealing of all government funds and for the formation of the internal administration of the duchy.
Emperor Alexander, having learned about such injustice from his most illustrious relative and from the Russian ambassador in Paris, Prince Kurakin, could hardly believe them and, considering the whole incident to be some kind of misunderstanding on the part of the commissars, ordered Prince Kurakin to verify with greater accuracy what had happened and demand explanations from the French Court. At the same time, the sovereign ordered to remind Napoleon that the possessions of the Duke of Holstein-Oldenburg were assigned to him by Article 12 of the Treaty of Tilsit; that the Russian Emperor, as the head of the House of Holstein, is also the heir of the Duke and that, therefore, in the event of an insult to the Duke, he will be forced to defend him and his own rights.
What did Napoleon answer to these legitimate demands of the Russian sovereign? It's strange to see what incredible conclusions a person can come to when he needs to justify his injustice! Here is an interesting answer in this regard from the French Minister of Foreign Affairs to Prince Kurakin: “Of course, Erfurt in terms of space and population cannot be a sufficient reward; but the land is more fertile than in Oldenburg, the inhabitants are more industrial and richer, the incomes are the same, and Emperor Napoleon leaves the Duke his former inheritance in Oldenburg. There is no palace in Erfurt, but I remember there is a large house where the Duke can fit comfortably. As for the violation of Article 12 of the Tilsit Peace, then, without a doubt, it serves in favor of the Duke; but it also says that, until the end of the war with England, French troops will occupy the duchy. During the conclusion of the Peace of Tilsit, Oldenburg was in the power of Emperor Napoleon, who, having returned his conquest to the Duke, fulfilled the agreement. Then new political considerations arose, as a result of which it was necessary to annex this region to France. But the Duke loses absolutely nothing from this: Emperor Napoleon, by giving up Erfurt, wants to make him a full reward and thereby show new evidence of friendship for the sovereign. In events there is an inevitable accident and one must submit to it. Small possessions cannot remain when their existence is contrary to the policy and interests of the great powers, which, like swift streams, absorb everything they meet in their course. These are the rules of Emperor Napoleon, and he cannot refuse the measure he once adopted, especially since by decree The Senate, which annexed Oldenburg to France, considers itself completely bound.”
Company officer of the Main Engineering School
Such persistent defense of a case that was completely unjust clearly proved Napoleon’s desire to violate the agreement that impeded his intentions, especially since Emperor Frantsuzov responded to the second proposal of the Russian court to Napoleon to sign an act in which he would promise never to strive to restore the Kingdom of Poland that although the restoration of Poland is not part of his political plans, the signing of such an act would be incompatible with his dignity. To this it must be added that at the same time, throughout France and in all the regions subject to it and allied with it, armies were replenished, entire regiments were re-established, weapons and military ammunition were stocked up, in a word, preparations were made for war. Here we bring to your attention exact data about all the military forces of Napoleon during his greatest power, as well as about that huge part of them, which he intended, under the name of the Grand Army, for his planned conquest of Russia.
In February 1811, the active French troops according to the lists were:
There are 305,245 people in Spain.
There are 47,846 people in Italy.
There are 16,685 people in Illaria and the Ionian Islands.
There are 22,823 people in Holland.
There are 47,250 people in Germany.
There are 198,610 people in France.
Guard 37,302 people.
Total 675,761 people.
The formation of these troops began in February 1811, and by mid-October of the same year it was already completed; the French army already consisted of 850,000 people. In addition, Napoleon had 337,000 auxiliary troops from all the kingdoms under his control. And from this gigantic army, the number of which reached 1,187,000 people, the Emperor of the French at the beginning of 1812 created the so-called Grand Army. It consisted of 610,000 combatants, and with officials and in general all people belonging to the army and called non-combatants, up to 700,000 people.
Prince Alexander Borisovich Kurakin.
Alexander Borisovich Kurakin (1752–1818) - Russian diplomat, vice-chancellor, president of the College of Foreign Affairs. As ambassador to France in 1808–1812, he promptly informed the Russian government about the upcoming invasion of Napoleon.
The following peoples took part in this huge militia: French, Italians, Swiss, Dutch, Austrians, Hungarians, Bavarians, Württembergs, Saxons, Westphalians, other various peoples of the Rhine League, Prussians, Poles, Illyrians, Portuguese and captive Spaniards.
The entire Russian army, already strengthened by March 1812, consisted of 590,973 people, but of these, only 218,000 could be directed against the enemy; the rest had to guard the borders of our vast spaces and, in addition, participate in the war with the Turks, which at that time was not yet over.
Napoleon used all his influence to ensure that it was not completed: French couriers constantly traveled from him to Constantinople with instructions to the French envoy. But all efforts were in vain: the Turks, under the influence of Kutuzov’s victories, came to the need to conclude peace with Russia and concluded it at the very time when Napoleon tried most of all to turn them against the Russians.
His efforts in relation to the Swedes also had little success. After many worries and unrest, Sweden at this time had just achieved calm, which it did not want to disturb: on the throne of Gustavus Adolphus his uncle Charles XIII was still on the throne, but the heir of this king, who had no children, was chosen at the request of the people and, of course, under the influence of the Emperor of the French, French Marshal Bernadotte, Prince of Pontecorvo. However, while facilitating the election of his marshal to the Swedish crown prince, Napoleon made a mistake in his calculations. Bernadotte, having become the heir to the throne of the famous Gustav Vasa and adopted the Lutheran religion, seemed to turn into a real Swede. His noble heart told him that now his whole life should be devoted to Sweden, and no convictions of Napoleon could make him forget for a minute about its benefits. Convinced that these benefits did not lie in a war with Russia, but, on the contrary, in a very close alliance with it, the Crown Prince of Sweden rejected all the flattering promises given to him by Napoleon for the help of the Swedes in the war against Russia, and he himself offered this help to the Russian Emperor.
Such a sublime way of thinking was appreciated by Alexander, and sincere friendly relations connected him from that time with the Swedish heir. In fact, he was the only prince who dared to openly side with Alexander, who was abandoned by all powers at that time. No doubt many of them were on his side and secretly wished him success, not Napoleon; but in reality they were all his enemies, they all went against him under the leadership of Napoleon.
Europe presented an amazing picture at a time when France’s intentions against Russia were already known to everyone, but war had not yet been declared, when all of Napoleon’s troops were already on the way to Russia, and in Russia they were preparing to meet the enemy. In appearance, everything was quiet, everything was immersed in some kind of mysterious expectation, which was like silence - a harbinger of a storm. And during this formidable silence, the envoys of both states conducted negotiations, as usual, and even traveled from one sovereign to another with instructions that were more likely to be peaceful than military in nature.
Obelisk of military glory on the Champ de Mars in St. Petersburg
This was surprising to the crowd, but understandable to everyone who knew Napoleon and Alexander well: the first, who achieved greatness by all means, did not want to appear in the eyes of Europe as an unjust instigator of war; the second, pious and meek, was afraid by excessive haste to prematurely subject Europe to new bloodshed, with which his conscience could agree only in as a last resort. What the actual state of affairs was can be judged by the fact that Napoleon not only dreamed, but even spoke with his entourage about the conquest of India from the British with the help of Russia, which he had conquered, and Emperor Alexander almost at the same time wrote to his commander-in-chief: “I ask you , do not be timid in the face of difficulties, rely on God’s Providence and His justice. Do not be discouraged, but strengthen your soul with the great goal to which we strive: to free humanity from the yoke under which it groans, and to free Europe from its chains.”
Such was the purpose of Alexander's efforts, but, despite all their sublime character, he considered it his duty to avoid war as far as possible, and therefore offered the envoy who last came to him from the Emperor of the French the easiest terms for preserving peace. Even agreeing to transfer other possessions in Germany to the Duke of Oldenburg, the Russian Emperor insisted only on the withdrawal of French troops from Prussia and the Duchy of Warsaw.
Napoleon called this insistence, which was aimed at preserving the peace and security of Prussia and Russia, offensive to his dignity and to the independence of the Prussian king, and under this insignificant and unfair pretext he decided to invade Russia without even properly declaring war on it. Having given the order to his army, already stationed on the Vistula, to march at an accelerated pace to the Russian borders and cross the border river Neman near Kovno, he at the same time issued the following order: “Soldiers! The Second Polish War began. The first ended at Friedland and Tilsit. In Tilsit, Russia swore an eternal alliance with France and war with England. Now she is breaking her oaths and does not want to give any explanation for her strange behavior until the French eagles return beyond the Rhine, betraying our allies into her power. Russia is into rock! Her destiny must be fulfilled. Doesn't she consider us changed? Are we not already the warriors of Austerlitz? Russia puts us between dishonor and war. The choice will not be doubtful. Let's go forward. Let's cross the Neman, bring the war into Russian borders. The Second Polish War, like the first, will glorify French weapons; but the peace we will conclude will be lasting and will put an end to fifty years of arrogant Russian influence in European affairs.”
Together with the French army, the Poles also read this order and were delighted with it. It was as if it had been composed to incite them to rebellion, and, frivolous, they were carried away by the flattering promises of the ruler of Europe and, getting rid of the paternal power of a single-tribal king, they themselves surrendered to the power of a cruel and alien conqueror sovereign. In Poland and in the Polish provinces annexed to Russia, the inhabitants separated from the Russians and were preparing to meet the French to restore their Fatherland. This was another important loss for Russia, or better said, it was several thousand more of its new enemies. What did the king do during the dangers that threatened his throne? The deeds of the Tsar, of whom Russia can be so justly proud, can best be judged by his in my own words addressed to the people. For example, here is his first order to the armies, given on June 13, the day after the French entered our Fatherland.
Insignia "Virtuti military" (military valor)
“For a long time, we have noticed the hostile actions of the French Emperor against Russia, but we have always hoped to reject them in meek and peaceful ways. Finally, seeing the incessant renewal of obvious insults, with all our desire to maintain silence, we were forced to take up arms and gather our troops; but even then, still caressed by reconciliation, they remained within the boundaries of our empire, without disturbing the peace, being only ready for defense. All these measures of meekness and peacefulness could not maintain the peace we desired. The French emperor, by attacking our troops at Kovno, was the first to open the war. So, seeing him inflexible to peace by any means, we have no choice but to call upon the help of the Witness and Defender of Truth, the Almighty Creator of heaven, to put our forces against the forces of the enemy. I don’t need to remind our leaders, generals and soldiers of their duty and courage. Since ancient times, the blood of the Slavs, resounding with victories, has flowed in them. Warriors! You defend Faith, Fatherland, Freedom. I'm with you. God for the beginner!
Girardet. The passage of the French army through the Neman. Engraving.
By the summer of 1812, Napoleon had gathered enormous forces for the war with Russia.
German, Polish, Italian, and Spanish troops fought on the side of France.
In total, Napoleon's army numbered 600 thousand people.
On June 12, 1812, the French crossed the border river Neman and entered the Russian Empire.
A.G. Ukhtomsky. Count Nikolai Ivanovich Saltykov. Engraving.
Nikolai Ivanovich Saltykov - count, general. Catherine II appointed him the chief educator of her grandson, Alexander. From 1812 to 1816, during the reign of Emperor Alexander I, N.I. Saltykov was the chairman State Council and at the same time served as Chairman of the Cabinet of Ministers.
Having read this order, filled with such meekness and such piety, you can now imagine, dear readers, everything that a sovereign who acted in this way could have done and actually did. Of course, a heart so generous, a soul so firmly trusting in God, means so strong that mighty Russia could provide its sovereign, could not fail to defeat an enemy who was proud only of the strength of his own genius, who relied only on people carried away by this genius. So in all the ancient and modern times When Russia was destined to fight the enemies attacking it, the Faith and Piety of the people and kings saved it even when death seemed inevitable. It has lived up to the truth of the sacred saying better than other states in world history: “Those who trust in the Lord will not be put to shame!” But never before has this truth appeared to the eyes of people in such a bright light as in 1812; Russia's position has never been more dangerous than it is now, never have its enemies been more numerous and more skillful in winning in science. But what did this multitude and this art mean before the power of the one whose help the Russians and, above all, their pious Tsar called for! You already saw this in his first appeal to the troops. Now read what he wrote for general publication, in his own handwritten rescript to Field Marshal, Count Saltykov, his deeply respected teacher of childhood and youth.
“Count Nikolai Ivanovich!
French troops entered the borders of our empire. The most treacherous attack was retaliation for the strict supervision of the union. I, in order to preserve peace, have exhausted all means compatible with the dignity of the throne and the benefit of my people. All my efforts were unsuccessful. Emperor Napoleon firmly decided in his mind to ruin Russia. The most moderate proposals remained unanswered. The sudden attack clearly revealed the falsity of the peace-loving promises confirmed in recent times. And therefore, I have no choice but to raise my weapon and use all the methods given to me by Providence to repel force with force. I trust in the zeal of my people and the courage of my troops. Being threatened in the depths of their homes, they will defend them with their characteristic firmness and courage. Providence will bless our righteous cause. The defense of the Fatherland, the preservation of independence and the honor of the people forced us to gird ourselves swearing I will not lay down my weapons until not a single enemy warrior remains in my kingdom.”
In this second appeal, a whole series of famous deeds of Alexander are again visible. The memorable words: “I will not lay down my arms until not a single enemy warrior remains in my kingdom,” were the beginning of the success of the Russians, they were the foundation on which the firmness of the tsar erected the majestic edifice of the glory of his people and at the same time the destruction of the most powerful conqueror. Fully aware of the importance of his solemn saying, Alexander, during the entire stay of the French in his state, did not bow to any of Napoleon’s proposals for peace and thereby brought the proud instigator of the war to the extreme state in which he later found himself and which ominously foreshadowed his downfall.
After these two appeals of the emperor, which had such an important influence on the outcome of the Patriotic War, you just have to learn, dear readers, about two more appeals, and then the history of the famous year of the twelfth will appear before you in all its clarity, simplicity and soul-touching eloquence. The first of them was addressed to our ancient capital Moscow, the second - to all the people.
“Our capital, Moscow.
The enemy entered Russia with great forces. He is coming to ruin our Fatherland. Although the Russian militia, burning with courage, is ready to meet and overthrow its insolence and malice, however, due to our fatherly love and care for all our faithful subjects, we cannot leave them without warning them about this danger that threatens them. May our negligence not give us an advantage to the enemy. For this reason, with the intention of gathering new internal forces for proper defense, we first turn to the ancient capital of our ancestors, Moscow. She has always been the head of other Russian cities, she has always poured out from her depths deadly force on her enemies; following her example, from all other surroundings the sons of the Fatherland flowed to her, like blood to the heart, to protect it. Never insisted more needs as now. The salvation of the faith, the throne, the kingdom requires it. So, may the spirit of that righteous warfare, which God and our Orthodox Church bless, spread in the hearts of our famous nobility and in all other classes; May this common zeal and zeal now form new forces, and may they multiply, starting from Moscow, throughout the entire vast Russia! We will not hesitate to stand among our people in this capital, and in other places in our state, for consultation and guidance of all our militias, both now blocking the paths of the enemy, and again organized to defeat him wherever he appears. May the destruction into which he imagines to overthrow us return to his head, and may Europe, liberated from slavery, exalt the name of Russia.”
View of the Resurrection Gate in Moscow
"THE HIGHEST MANIFESTO"
“The enemy has entered our borders and continues to carry his weapons into Russia, hoping by force and temptation to shake the calm of this great power. He set in his mind the evil intention of destroying her glory and prosperity. With deceit in his heart and flattery in his lips, he carries eternal chains and shackles for her. We, having called upon the help of God, place our troops to block him, seething with the courage to trample him, overthrow him, and drive away what remains undestroyed from the face of our land. We place our firm hope in their strength and strength, but we cannot and must not hide from our faithful subjects that the forces of different powers he has assembled are great, and that his courage requires vigilant vigilance against it. For this reason, with all the firmness of our hopes for our brave army, we consider it necessary to gather new forces within the state, which, inflicting new horror on the enemy, would constitute a second fence to reinforce the first and to protect the homes, wives and children of each and everyone.
We have already appealed to our capital city, Moscow; and now we appeal to all our loyal subjects, to all classes and conditions, spiritual and temporal, inviting them, together with us, to assist in a unanimous and common uprising against all enemy plans and attempts. May he find at every step the faithful sons of Russia, striking him with all means and strength, not heeding any of his craftiness and deceptions. May he meet in every nobleman - Pozharsky, in every spiritual - Palitsyna, in every citizen - Minina. Noble nobility! You have always been the savior of the Fatherland. Holy Synod and clergy! With your warm prayers you have always called upon grace for the head of Russia. Russian people! Brave offspring of the brave Slavs! You have repeatedly crushed the teeth of the lions and tigers that rushed at you; unite everyone: with a cross in your heart and with weapons in your hands, no human forces will defeat you.
For the initial formation of the intended forces, it is given to the nobility in all provinces to bring together the people they supply for the defense of the Fatherland, electing from among themselves a leader over them and letting Moscow know about their number, where the chief leader over all will be elected.”
Understanding the effect that the words of their tsar have on the Russians, it will not be difficult for you, dear readers, to guess what the meaning of these two manifestos was! It was here that the reason for performing a long series of brave deeds, generous donations, and boundless self-sacrifice lay hidden. All classes, even all ages, submitted to the magical influence of the royal word.
On July 11, these manifestos were published in Moscow. At the same time, the Moscow residents learned that the sovereign himself would arrive in their capital by the evening of the same day. You should have seen what a revolution these two pieces of news produced in the mood of the residents! Four weeks have already passed since Napoleon and his numerous multi-tribal army were in Russia, and during all this time, which seemed so long for the Russians, not only was not a single victory won over the enemy, but the commanders-in-chief of the Russian armies, Barclay de Tolly and Prince Bagration even retreated and, as if trying with all their might to avoid a battle with the French, ceded cities and entire regions to them. This was necessary to unite our armies, already divided by the French; but the people did not understand why such measures of prudence and precaution were needed, and, thoughtlessly accusing the military leaders of timidity and insufficient zeal for the defense of the Fatherland, they lost heart and regretted that they were not given the opportunity to fight the enemy for the Tsar and the Motherland. Muscovites were especially categorical in such reasoning, because they were closest to the enemy and, as residents of the capital, who at all times were famous for their zeal for the throne, considered themselves more obliged than others to come to the defense of the sacred jewels kept in their God's temples, in their royal palaces. And at such a time they received two manifestos from the sovereign and news of his imminent arrival! Their feelings that replaced despondency were inexpressible! It seemed to them that they had emerged from a stuffy dungeon into fresh, fragrant air. Happiness was revealed to them that had previously seemed non-existent to them! They could show their zeal for the Fatherland, and the Tsar himself called them to this holy cause! And on the same day they hoped to see the Tsar himself - this is the red sun of Russia.
Vendramini. Count Mikhail Bogdanovich Barclay de Tolly. Engraving based on a portrait of Saint-Aubin.
Mikhail Bogdanovich Barclay de Tolly (1761–1818) - Field Marshal General, Minister of War. He was originally from Livonia. At the beginning of the Patriotic War, he commanded the first Russian army and was commander-in-chief. After the unification of the armies near Smolensk, the experienced and far-sighted commander Barclay de Tolly ordered the retreat to continue. He understood the impossibility of defeating Napoleon at that moment.
All evening and July people crowded on Poklonnaya Hill and near the Dorogomilovskaya outpost, from where the sovereign was supposed to go. Everyone tried to see him before everyone else; everyone conspired to unharness the horses in his carriage and carry the father-sovereign to the capital. But Alexander, meek, humble more than all other earthly kings, fully able to appreciate the love of his people, did not like to accept solemnly ardent outpourings, and always tried to evade the honors that everyone wanted to give him. This happened this time too. He ordered a rumor to be spread that he was staying overnight at the last station; the people went home, and at 12 o'clock at night the sovereign entered the capital unnoticed by everyone.
The next day, the emperor, despite all his modesty, could no longer avoid the solemn meeting: from early morning the Kremlin squares were filled with people watching the slightest movement in the sovereign's palace. At 10 o'clock Alexander appeared on the Red Porch. It is always difficult to convey the delight of the Russians at the moment when they see the appearance of their sovereigns on the Red Porch. It is impossible to describe the delight that was in the hearts of all the people on the morning of July 12, 1812! The ringing of bells - that sacred voice of the church, so highly revered by the pious people and their kings - and loud, fiery zealous cheers! were heard simultaneously at this solemn moment, and were soon eclipsed by new exclamations:
Banner of the St. Petersburg militia and banner of the mobile police battalions
“Lead us, our Father! - Alexander’s faithful children of all ranks and ages shouted. - Lead us, our Father! We will die or destroy the villain!” Touched by this, the sovereign surveyed the hosts of zealous people for a minute and then continued his procession to the Assumption Cathedral, where that day a thanksgiving prayer service was scheduled on the occasion of peace with the Turks, which the sovereign perceived in this difficult time for Russia as a special mercy of God.
The day of July 15 was even more solemn and sweet for the Russian people. The nobility and merchants gathered at the Slobodskaya Palace with a request to the sovereign to accept the help they offered. These requests were filled with such boundless devotion to the Throne and the Fatherland that the emperor could not thank his faithful subjects without tears. In an intermittent voice, he told them: “I did not expect and could not expect anything else from you: you justified my opinion of you.”
But even more flattering for the Moscow nobility and merchants was the following letter from the sovereign to Count Saltykov: “My arrival in Moscow was of real benefit. In Smolensk, the nobility offered me 20,000 people to arm me, which I immediately began to do. In Moscow, this province alone gives me a tenth from each estate, which will amount to 80,000 people, except for those who willingly come from the burghers and commoners. The nobles donate up to three million; merchants - too much up to ten. In a word, one cannot help but be moved to tears, seeing the spirit that animates everyone, and the zeal and readiness of everyone to contribute to the common good.”
If Napoleon - this great conqueror, this invincible warrior of his age - could have had an idea of the power of faith and piety, of the power of love based on them and connecting the sovereign with his people, how far he would have been from the thought of conquering Russia! What a difference between the countless regiments united by his genius, and the army, not so numerous, but gathered in the name of God! Even the newly recruited militia detachments - this is an army formed from simple peasants - even they, drawn by a fiery sense of their devotion to the Sovereign and the Fatherland, were distinguished by amazing fearlessness!
Tardieu. Emperor Alexander I. Engraving based on a portrait of Kügelchen.
No less surprising was the speed with which these detachments were formed: the Moscow militia joined the main army in August. The Smolensk and Kaluga militias were ready for battle almost at the same time. The St. Petersburg and Novgorod militias, the best formed, came at the beginning of September to reinforce Count Wittgenstein’s corps, which was guarding the road to the northern capital from the enemy. In short, in two months a new army of 130,000 people was formed. Of course, not all of its warriors could bring the same benefit as the old soldiers of the active army, but each of them could be in reserve, that is, in such a branch of the army from which reinforcements arrived to replace those killed and wounded in the regiments.
A.O. Orlovsky. Prince Mikhail Illarionovich Kutuzov-Smolensky.
In August 1812, the retreat of the Russian armies into the interior of the country continued. The troops grumbled about Barclay de Tolly's caution and showed him, as a German, obvious distrust. In such circumstances, Emperor Alexander I heeded the popular voice and chose the commander-in-chief from among the Russian generals, namely Prince Kutuzov, who enjoyed the reputation of a skillful commander and a deft diplomat.
But let's return to the actions of the Russian armies. We left them retreating from the enemy to unite the scattered forces. Despite all the efforts of the French to prevent this connection, it took place on July 22 near Smolensk, and here the first bloody battle between the Russians and the French took place - a battle that lasted two days, namely on August 4 and 5. Generals Konovnitsyn, Ermolov and Raevsky distinguished themselves here. But, despite all their courage, the Russians had to cede Smolensk to the French, or, better said, its burning ruins, in order to protect from enemies the road along which there was still communication with our grain-producing provinces. They retreated to Vyazma.
No matter how bloody the battle at Smolensk was, it still could not be called a general battle, which the entire army and the entire people were waiting for. The warriors, eager to fight, were already beginning to grumble, and the commander-in-chief Barclay de Tolly decided to satisfy him. But before the most was chosen for battle comfortable spot, a new chief arrived to the army - Prince Kutuzov.
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Here summary Patriotic War of 1812. Napoleon, at the head of a huge 600,000-strong army, crossed the Neman on June 12, 1812. The Russian army, numbering only 240 thousand people, was forced to retreat deeper into the country. In the battle of Smolensk, Bonaparte failed to win a complete victory and defeat the united 1st and 2nd Russian armies.
In August, M.I. Kutuzov was appointed commander-in-chief. He not only had talent strategist, but also enjoyed respect among soldiers and officers. He decided to give a general battle to the French near the village of Borodino. The positions for the Russian troops were chosen most successfully. The left flank was protected by flushes (earthen fortifications), and the right flank by the Koloch River. The troops of N.N. Raevsky were located in the center. and artillery.
Both sides fought desperately. The fire of 400 guns was directed at the flashes, which were courageously guarded by the troops under the command of Bagration. As a result of 8 attacks, Napoleonic troops suffered huge losses. They managed to capture Raevsky's batteries (in the center) only at about 4 o'clock in the afternoon, but not for long. The French attack was contained thanks to a bold raid by the lancers of the 1st Cavalry Corps. Despite all the difficulties of bringing the old guard, the elite troops, into battle, Napoleon never risked it. Late in the evening the battle ended. The losses were enormous. The French lost 58, and the Russians 44 thousand people. Paradoxically, both commanders declared victory in the battle.
The decision to leave Moscow was made by Kutuzov at the council in Fili on September 1. This was the only way to maintain a combat-ready army. On September 2, 1812, Napoleon entered Moscow. Waiting for a peace proposal, Napoleon stayed in the city until October 7. As a result of fires, most of Moscow was destroyed during this time. Peace with Alexander 1 was never concluded.
Kutuzov stopped 80 km away. from Moscow in the village of Tarutino. He covered Kaluga, which had large reserves of fodder and the arsenals of Tula. The Russian army, thanks to this maneuver, was able to replenish its reserves and, importantly, update its equipment. At the same time, French foraging detachments were subjected to partisan attacks. The detachments of Vasilisa Kozhina, Fyodor Potapov, and Gerasim Kurin launched effective strikes, depriving the French army of the opportunity to replenish food supplies. The special detachments of A.V. Davydov also acted in the same way. and Seslavina A.N.
After leaving Moscow, Napoleon's army failed to get through to Kaluga. The French were forced to retreat along the Smolensk road, without food. Early severe frosts worsened the situation. The final defeat of the Great Army took place in the battle of the Berezina River on November 14–16, 1812. Of the 600,000-strong army, only 30,000 hungry and frozen soldiers left Russia. The manifesto on the victorious end of the Patriotic War was issued by Alexander 1 on December 25 of the same year. The victory of 1812 was complete.
In 1813 and 1814, a campaign of the Russian army took place, liberating European countries from Napoleon's rule. Russian troops acted in alliance with the armies of Sweden, Austria, and Prussia. As a result, in accordance with the Treaty of Paris on May 18, 1814, Napoleon lost his throne and France returned to its 1793 borders.
24.
Decembrist revolt of 1825
Revolutionary ideas appeared in Russia in the 1st quarter of the 19th century. The progressive society of that time was disillusioned with the reign of Alexander 1. However, the best people countries sought to end the backwardness of society in Russia.
During the period of liberation campaigns, having become familiar with Western political movements, the advanced Russian nobility realized that serfdom was the most important reason for the backwardness of the fatherland. The harsh reactionary policy in the field of education, Russia's participation in the suppression of European revolutionary events only strengthened confidence in the urgent need for change. Russian serfdom was perceived as an insult to the national dignity of everyone who considered himself an enlightened person. The ideas of Western national liberation movements, Russian journalism and educational literature had a serious influence on the formation of the views of future Decembrists. Thus, we can highlight the following most important reasons for the Decembrist uprising. This is the strengthening of serfdom, the difficult socio-economic situation in the country, the refusal of Alexander 1 to carry out liberal reforms, the influence of the works of Western thinkers.
The first political secret society was formed in St. Petersburg in February 1816. His goal was to adopt a constitution in the country and abolish serfdom. It included Pestel, Muravyov, S.I. Muravyov-Apostles. and M.I. (total 28 members).
Later, in 1818, a larger organization, the Union of Welfare, was created in Moscow, which numbered up to 200 members. It also had councils in other cities of Russia. Purpose secret society became the idea of propaganda for the abolition of serfdom. The officers began preparing for a coup. But the “Union of Welfare”, having never achieved its goal, disintegrated due to internal disagreements.
“Northern Society”, created on the initiative of N.M. Muravyov. in St. Petersburg, there was a more liberal attitude. Nevertheless, for this society, the most important goals were the proclamation of civil liberties, the destruction of serfdom and autocracy.
The conspirators were preparing for an armed uprising. And the opportune moment for implementing the plans came in November 1825, after the death of Emperor Alexander. Despite the fact that not everything was ready, the conspirators decided to act, and the Decembrist uprising took place in 1825. It was planned to carry out a coup, seize the Senate and the monarch, on the day Nicholas 1 took the oath.
On December 14, in the morning on Senate Square there was the Moscow Life Guards Regiment, as well as the Life Guards Grenadier and Guards Marine Regiments. In total, about 3 thousand people gathered in the square.
But Nicholas 1 was warned that a Decembrist uprising was being prepared on Senate Square. He swore in the Senate in advance. After this, he was able to gather the remaining loyal troops and surround Senate Square. Negotiations were started. They did not bring any results. From the government side, Metropolitan Seraphim and Miloradovich M.A., the governor of St. Petersburg, took part in them. Miloradovich was wounded during the negotiations, which became fatal. After this, by order of Nicholas 1, artillery was used. The Decembrist uprising of 1825 failed. Later, on December 29, S.I. Muravyov-Apostol was able to raise the Chernigov regiment. This rebellion was also suppressed by government troops on January 2. The results of the Decembrist uprising turned out to be far from the plans of the conspirators.
Arrests of participants and organizers of the uprising took place throughout Russia. 579 people were charged in this case. 287 were found guilty. Five were sentenced to death. These were S.I. Muravyov-Apostol, K.F. Ryleev, P.G. Pestel, M.P. Bestuzhev-Ryumin, P. G. Kakhovsky. 120 people were exiled to hard labor or to settlement in Siberia.
The Decembrist uprising, a summary of which is outlined above, failed not only because of the inconsistency of the actions of the conspirators, the unpreparedness of society for such radical changes, and the lack of support from the broad masses. However, the historical significance of the Decembrist uprising is difficult to overestimate. For the first time, a fairly clear political program was put forward, and an armed uprising took place against the authorities. And, although Nicholas 1 called the conspirators only crazy rebels, the consequences of the Decembrist uprising turned out to be extremely significant for the further history of Russia. A brutal reprisal over them aroused sympathy in wide sections of society and forced many progressive people of that era to awaken.
25. Abolition of serfdom in Russia
The prerequisites for the abolition of serfdom arose at the end of the 18th century. All layers of society considered the serfdom an immoral phenomenon that disgraced Russia. In order to stand on a par with European countries free from slavery, the Russian government was faced with the issue of abolishing serfdom.
The main reasons for the abolition of serfdom:
Serfdom became a brake on the development of industry and trade, which hampered the growth of capital and placed Russia in the category of secondary states;
The decline of the landowner economy due to the extremely ineffective labor of the serfs, which was expressed in the obviously poor performance of the corvee;
The increase in peasant revolts indicated that the serf system was a “powder keg” under the state;
Defeat in the Crimean War (1853-1856) demonstrated backwardness political system in the country.
Alexander I tried to take the first steps in resolving the issue of abolishing serfdom, but his committee did not figure out how to bring this reform to life. Emperor Alexander limited himself to the law of 1803 on free cultivators.
Nicholas I in 1842 adopted the law “On Obligated Peasants”, according to which the landowner had the right to free the peasants by giving them a land allotment, and the peasants were obliged to bear duties in favor of the landowner for the use of the land. However, this law did not take root; the landowners did not want to let the peasants go.
In 1857, official preparations began for the abolition of serfdom. Emperor Alexander II ordered the establishment of provincial committees, which were supposed to develop projects to improve the life of serfs. Based on these projects, the drafting commissions drew up a bill, which was transferred to the Main Committee for consideration and establishment.
On February 19, 1861, Emperor Alexander II signed a manifesto on the abolition of serfdom and approved the “Regulations on peasants emerging from serfdom.” Alexander remained in history with the name “Liberator”.
Although liberation from slavery gave peasants some personal and civil freedoms, such as the right to marry, go to court, trade, enter the civil service, etc., they were limited in freedom of movement, as well as economic rights. In addition, peasants remained the only class that bore conscription duties and could be subject to corporal punishment.
The land remained the property of the landowners, and the peasants were allocated a settled estate and a field allotment, for which they had to serve duties (in money or work), which were almost no different from serfs. According to the law, peasants had the right to buy out an allotment and an estate, then they received complete independence and became peasant owners. Until then, they were called “temporarily obligated.” The ransom amounted to the annual quitrent amount multiplied by 17!
To help the peasantry, the government organized a special “redemption operation.” After the establishment of the land allotment, the state paid the landowner 80% of the value of the allotment, and 20% was assigned to the peasant as a government debt, which he had to repay in installments over 49 years.
Peasants united into rural societies, and they, in turn, united into volosts. The use of field land was communal, and to make “redemption payments” the peasants were bound by a mutual guarantee.
Household people who did not plow the land were temporarily obliged for two years, and then could register with a rural or urban society.
The agreement between landowners and peasants was set out in the “statutory charter”. And to sort out emerging disagreements, the position of peace mediators was established. The general management of the reform was entrusted to the “provincial presence for peasant affairs.”
The peasant reform created the conditions for the transformation of labor into goods, and market relations began to develop, which is typical for a capitalist country. The consequence of the abolition of serfdom was the gradual formation of new social strata of the population - the proletariat and the bourgeoisie.
Changes in the social, economic and political life of Russia after the abolition of serfdom forced the government to undertake other important reforms, which contributed to the transformation of our country into a bourgeois monarchy.
Tsar Alexander 2, son of Nicholas 1, was born on April 29, 1818. Since he was the heir to the throne, he received an excellent education and had deep, versatile knowledge. Suffice it to say that the education of the heir was carried out so different people like combat officer Merder and Zhukovsky. His father Nicholas 1 had a great influence on the personality and subsequent reign of Alexander 2.
Emperor Alexander 2 ascended the throne after the death of his father in 1855. It must be said that the young emperor already had quite serious management experience. He was entrusted with the duties of the sovereign during periods of absence from the capital of Nicholas 1. short biography This person, of course, cannot include all the most important dates and events, but it is simply necessary to mention that the internal policy of Alexander 2 brought with it serious changes in the life of the country.
The cause of the war was the violation by Russia and France of the terms of the Tilsit Treaty. Russia actually abandoned the blockade of England, accepting ships with British goods under neutral flags in its ports. France annexed the Duchy of Oldenburg, and Napoleon considered the demand for the withdrawal of French troops from Prussia and the Duchy of Warsaw offensive. A military clash between the two great powers was becoming inevitable.
June 12, 1812 Napoleon at the head of an army of 600 thousand, crossing the river. Neman invaded Russia. Having an army of about 240 thousand people, Russian troops were forced to retreat before the French Armada. On August 3, the first and second Russian armies united near Smolensk, and a battle was fought. Napoleon failed to achieve complete victory. In August, M.I. was appointed commander-in-chief. Kutuzov. A talented strategist with extensive military experience, he was extremely popular among the people and in the army. Kutuzov decided to give battle in the area of the village of Borodino. A good position for the troops was chosen. The right flank was protected by the river. Koloch, the left one was protected by earthen fortifications - flashes, they were defended by the troops of P.I. Bagration. The troops of General N.N. stood in the center. Raevsky and artillery. Their positions were covered by the Shevardinsky redoubt.
Napoleon intended to break through the Russian formation from the left flank, and then direct all efforts to the center and press Kutuzov’s army to the river. He directed the fire of 400 guns at Bagration's flashes. The French launched eight attacks, starting at 5 a.m., suffering huge losses. Only by 4 o'clock in the afternoon did the French manage to advance to the center, temporarily capturing Raevsky's batteries. At the height of the battle, a desperate raid into the rear of the French was carried out by the lancers of the 1st cavalry corps F.P. Uvarov and the Cossacks of Ataman M.I. Platova. This restrained the attacking impulse of the French. Napoleon did not dare to bring the old guard into battle and lose the backbone of the army away from France.
The battle ended late in the evening. The troops suffered huge losses: the French - 58 thousand people, the Russians - 44 thousand.
Napoleon considered himself the winner in this battle, but later admitted: “Near Moscow, the Russians won the right to be invincible.” At the Battle of Borodino, the Russian army won a great moral and political victory over the European dictator.
On September 1, 1812, at a meeting in Fili, Kutuzov decided to leave Moscow. The retreat was necessary to preserve the army and further fight for the independence of the fatherland.
Napoleon entered Moscow on September 2 and stayed there until October 7, 1812, awaiting peace proposals. During this time, most of the city was burned. Bonaparte's attempts to make peace with Alexander I were unsuccessful.
Kutuzov stopped in the Kaluga direction in the village of Tarutino (80 km south of Moscow), covering Kaluga with large reserves of fodder and Tula with its arsenals. In the Tarutino camp, the Russian army replenished its reserves and received equipment. Meanwhile it flared up guerrilla warfare. The peasant detachments of Gerasim Kurin, Fyodor Potapov, and Vasilisa Kozhina crushed the French food detachments. Special army detachments of D.V. operated. Davydov and A.N. Seslavina.
Having left Moscow in October, Napoleon tried to go to Kaluga and spend the winter in a province not devastated by the war. On October 12, near Maloyaroslavets, Napoleon’s army was defeated and began to retreat along the devastated Smolensk road, driven by frost and hunger. Pursuing the retreating French, Russian troops destroyed their formations in parts. The final defeat of Napoleon's army took place in the battle of the river. Berezina November 14-16. Only 30 thousand French soldiers were able to leave Russia. On December 25, Alexander I issued a manifesto on the victorious end of the Patriotic War.
In 1813-1814 The foreign campaign of the Russian army took place for the liberation of Europe from the rule of Napoleon. In alliance with Austria, Prussia and Sweden, Russian troops inflicted a number of defeats on the French, the largest being the “Battle of the Nations” near Leipzig. The Treaty of Paris on May 18, 1814 deprived Napoleon of the throne and returned France to the borders of 1793.
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The Patriotic War of 1812 is an important page in the history of not only our country, but also the whole of Europe. Having entered a series of “Napoleonic wars,” Russia acted as the intercessor of monarchical Europe. Thanks to Russian victories over the French, the global revolution in Europe was delayed for some time.
War between France and Russia was inevitable, and on June 12, 1812, having gathered an army of 600 thousand, Napoleon crossed the Neman and invaded Russia. The Russian army had a plan to confront Napoleon, which was developed by the Prussian military theorist Fuhl, and approved by Emperor Alexander I.
Fuhl divided the Russian armies into three groups:
The 1st was commanded by Barclay de Tolly;
2nd Bagration;
3rd Tormasov.
Fuhl assumed that the armies would systematically retreat to fortified positions, unite, and hold back Napoleon’s onslaught. In practice, it was a disaster. Russian troops retreated, and soon the French found themselves not far from Moscow. Fuhl's plan completely failed, despite the desperate resistance of the Russian people.
The current situation required decisive action. So, on August 20, the post of commander-in-chief was taken by Mikhail Kutuzov, who was one of the best students of the Great Alexander Vasilyevich Suvorov. During the war with France, Kutuzov will utter an interesting phrase: “To save Russia, we must burn Moscow.”
Russian troops will give a general battle to the French near the village of Borodino. There was a Great Slaughter, called the Battle of Borodino. No one emerged victorious. The battle was brutal, with many casualties on both sides. A few days later, at the military council in Fili, Kutuzov will decide to retreat. On September 2, the French entered Moscow. Napoleon hoped that Muscovites would bring him the key to the city. No matter how it is... Deserted Moscow did not greet Napoleon solemnly at all. The city burned down, barns with food and ammunition burned down.
Entering Moscow was fatal for Napoleon. He didn't really know what to do next. The French army was harassed by partisans every day, every night. The War of 1812 was truly a Patriotic War. Confusion and vacillation began in Napoleon's Army, discipline was broken, and the soldiers began to drink. Napoleon stayed in Moscow until October 7, 1812. The French army decided to retreat south, to grain-growing regions that were not devastated by the war.
The Russian army gave battle to the French at Maloyaroslavets. The city was mired in fierce fighting, but the French wavered. Napoleon was forced to retreat along the Old Smolensk Road, the same one along which he had come. The battles near Vyazma, Krasny and at the crossing of the Berezina put an end to the Napoleonic intervention. The Russian army drove the enemy from its land. On December 23, 1812, Alexander I issued a manifesto on the end of the Patriotic War. The Patriotic War of 1812 was over, but the campaign of the Napoleonic Wars was only in full swing. The fighting continued until 1814.
The Patriotic War of 1812 is an important event in Russian History. The war caused an unprecedented surge national identity among the Russian people. Everyone, young and old, defended their Fatherland. By winning this war, the Russian people confirmed their courage and heroism, and showed an example of self-sacrifice for the good of the Motherland. The war gave us many people whose names will be forever inscribed in Russian history, these are Mikhail Kutuzov, Miloradovich, Dokhturov, Raevsky, Tormasov, Bagration, Seslavin, Gorchakov, Barclay-De-Tolly, Ermolov. And how many still unknown heroes of the Patriotic War of 1812, how many forgotten names. The Patriotic War of 1812 is a Great Event, the lessons of which should not be forgotten today.
2. Battle of Borodino.
3. Napoleon in Moscow.
1. Napoleon's invasion of Russia.
Since the end of the 18th century, European countries have been plunged into endless wars. Came to power in France commander Napoleon Bonaparte and proclaimed himself emperor. He dreamed of world domination. Already many conquered countries lay at the feet of Napoleon. But in order to finally feel like a world master, he needed to conquer Russia.
In June 1812, Napoleon's army invaded Russia. The strength of Napoleon's army was 600 thousand people. The French attack was so swift and swift. The Russian armies were unable to hold back the onslaught of the French and were forced to begin a retreat. Napoleon was confident of an imminent victory.
The soldiers and generals of the Russian army had a hard time experiencing the failures of the first months of the war. Anxiety for the fate of the Fatherland gripped the entire people. In this difficult hour for Russia Mikhail Illarionovich Kutuzov was appointed commander-in-chief.
The troops greeted with joy the appointment of Kutuzov as commander-in-chief. He already had many victories to his name and was a student of Suvorov.
2. Battle of Borodino.
Kutuzov began preparations for a decisive battle. On August 20, 1812, at 6 o’clock in the morning, a battle took place on a wide and spacious field near the village of Borodino, 110 km from Moscow.
The defense of Kurgan Heights became one of the most difficult moments in the Battle of Borodino. The defense of the Kurgan Heights was headed by General Nikolai Nikolaevich Raevsky. 400 French cannons fired at the heights for several hours. And after the most brutal attacks, the enemy managed to occupy the heights.
Well, it was a day!
Through the flying smoke
The French moved like clouds,
And everything is at our redoubt.
Lancers with colorful badges,
Dragoons with ponytails
Everyone flashed before us,
Everyone has been here.
(M.Yu. Lermontov)
Redoubt (fr. redoute- shelter) - a closed-type fortification, usually (but not necessarily) earthen, with a rampart and a ditch, intended for all-round defense.
Uhlans - along with the hussars, a genus of lightly armed (as opposed to cuirassiers) New European cavalry, armed with pikes, sabers and pistols. A distinctive attribute of their form was a high quadrangular headdress (ulanka or confederate).
Dragoons (French dragon - “ dragoon", lit. “dragon”) is the name of cavalry, capable of also operating on foot. In earlier times, the same name meant infantry mounted on horses.
The Russian army suffered heavy losses in the Battle of Borodino. Kutuzov gave the order to retreat to Moscow. He faced a difficult choice: give battle under the walls of Moscow or leave Moscow to the French, but save the army. Kutuzov decided to retreat.
On the terrible field of Borodino,
In a bloody, gigantic battle,
You showed what Ross can do!
Placing faith in God,
Despising enemies with all his might,
He is everywhere, always a colossus.
Fighting with my feelings,
You decided to give up Moscow;
But, strengthened in spirit,
Only you could say:
“Capitals of kingdoms do not constitute!”
(K.F. Ryleev)
3. Napoleon in Moscow.
Napoleon entered Moscow. In the conquered cities of Europe, he was presented with the keys to the city in honor. The handing over of the keys to the city is a symbol of the voluntary surrender of the city. Napoleon believed that he was close to victory and expected such a step from the residents of Moscow. But Moscow stood empty.
On September 2, a fire started in Moscow. It burned for several days. Moscow was almost completely burned down.
Napoleon waited in vain
Intoxicated with the last happiness,
Moscow kneeling,
With the keys of the old Kremlin:
No, my Moscow did not go
To him with a guilty head.
Not a holiday, not a receiving gift,
She was preparing a fire
To the impatient hero.
(A.S. Pushkin)
During his month in the capital, Napoleon lost 32 thousand of his soldiers. Napoleon had to leave Moscow. It was the turn of the Russian army to pursue the retreating French army.
3. The role of the people in the Patriotic War of 1812.
The entire people rose up to fight the invaders. That is why this war is called the Patriotic War.
The partisans caused great damage to the retreating French. They fought in territory occupied by the enemy. Not only men, but women, old people, and teenagers took part in the partisan movement. They armed themselves with pitchforks, clubs, and abandoned weapons. Small detachments of the Russian army also became partisans.
Denis Vasilievich Davydov was an officer, a talented poet and writer. He commanded one of these detachments.
It was the partisan detachments that caused significant damage to the French army. They captured carts with weapons and food, disrupted discipline in the ranks of the French army, and instilled fear in it.
Napoleon lost the war. In December 1812, Russian troops liberated their land and helped liberate the enslaved countries of Europe. The Patriotic War of 1812 was completed in April 1814 on French territory, after Paris was occupied.
The Patriotic War of 1812 became a lesson and example that a great victory can only be won by a united, determined and selfless people.
Napoleon's army destroyed many cities and villages, and many valuables were destroyed. But Russia managed to defend its independence.
At the end of the 19th century, a building was erected in Moscow in memory of the deliverance of Russia from invaders. Cathedral of Christ the Savior to“would forever remind distant posterity of the valiant deeds of his ancestors.”
The temple was blown up in 1931. In 1994, the government of Moscow, in agreement with the Moscow Patriarchate, adopted a resolution to begin restoration Cathedral of Christ the Savior . By 1997 the temple was restored in its basic forms.
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