The Battle of Borodino, also known as the Battle of Moscow, was fought on September 7, 1812, during the Napoleonic Wars. It was one of the largest and bloodiest single-day battles of the French Invasion of Russia and is considered a pivotal event in the campaign. Here are key details about the battle:
Context
Location
- The battle took place near the village of Borodino, approximately 125 kilometers west of Moscow, on the banks of the Moskva River.
Forces Involved
The Battle
- The battle began early in the morning with an artillery bombardment by the French.
- The Russians had constructed extensive fortifications, including the Raevsky Redoubt and the Shevardino Redoubt, to defend their positions.
- Fighting was intense, with several key engagements:
- The battle saw massive casualties on both sides, with estimates suggesting up to 45,000 Russian and 30,000 French casualties.
Outcome
- The battle ended without a clear victory for either side, but the French managed to capture key Russian positions.
- Despite the heavy losses, Napoleon claimed victory, but the cost was high, and the Russian army retreated in good order.
- After the battle, Kutuzov decided to abandon Moscow, leading to its occupation by the French on September 14, 1812.
Aftermath
- The Battle of Borodino set the stage for the eventual retreat of the French Army from Russia, as they were unable to sustain the occupation due to the harsh Russian winter, lack of supplies, and continuous guerrilla warfare.
- It is considered one of the turning points in the Napoleonic Wars, contributing to the decline of Napoleon's power.
Legacy
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