Legacy Napoleon | Clash of Empires | 3
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Nov 29, 2023 Napoleon's Russian campaign turns into a nightmare as he faces brutal winter and devastating losses. His initial victories quickly fade as he confronts starvation and disease on the retreat from Moscow. The aftermath reveals the tragic consequences of his hubris, with critical battles and the rise of independence movements draining resources. Tensions escalate as he struggles to rebuild his army against a united Europe, ultimately leading to his dramatic downfall and the chaotic return to power in a politically unstable France.
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Napoleon's Russian Campaign Flaws
- Napoleon's invasion of Russia failed not only due to winter but due to strategic miscalculations and overstretched supply lines.
- The burning of Moscow and harsh winter forced a disastrous retreat that decimated his army and eroded his military credibility.
Catastrophic Overreach in Russia
- The Russian campaign is among history's most catastrophic military disasters, with vast loss from starvation and disease rather than combat.
- The invasion pursued prestige over practical gain, highlighting Napoleon’s overreaching ambition and loss of strategic perspective.
Failed Diplomacy and Growing Enemies
- Napoleon miscalculated that Tsar Alexander would negotiate after military defeats; instead, Russia refused peace and prolonged the war.
- The alliance of European powers and internal conflicts like the Spanish war further eroded Napoleon's power and resources.