The main battles of the Patriotic War of 1812.

home

Beginning his Russian campaign of 1812, on the morning of June 11 (23), he addressed an appeal to the “Great Army” that had already been mobilized and prepared for the invasion. It said:

“Warriors! The Second Polish War begins. The first ended under Friedland and Tilsit... Russia gives us the choice of dishonor or war, it is not in doubt. We will go forward, cross the Neman and bring war into its heart.

The Second Polish War will glorify French weapons as much as the first. But the peace we make will be lasting and will destroy fifty years of proud and misplaced Russian influence in European affairs.”

On the same day, at 9 pm, the crossing of the Neman River began.

Napoleon's crossing of the Neman. Colorized engraving. OK. 1816

A. Albrecht. The Italian corps of Eugene Beauharnais is crossing the Neman. June 30, 1812

Napoleon's "Grand Army" invaded Russia suddenly, without a prior declaration of war. Here lay a “small” military trick. On June 10 (22), the Ambassador of France in St. Petersburg A. Lauriston presented to the head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia, Prince A.I. Saltykov's note. It followed from this that from that time on, Emperor Napoleon I Bonaparte “considers himself in a state of war with Russia.” In Vilna, where the Russian sovereign was located, the note was delivered only three days later.

Napoleon rejected the peace proposal, since by that time his vanguard units were already on Russian territory and moving forward. He asked the Russian general:

Tell me, to get to Moscow, which is the best road to take?

To the arrogant question of the Emperor of France, Lieutenant General A.D. Balashov answered dryly and briefly:

Charles XII walked through Poltava...

On June 12 (24), Emperor Alexander I signed the Manifesto on the beginning of the war with France. It called on all sectors of society to defend faith, Fatherland and freedom and resolutely stated:

The superiority of the “Great Army” in strength, as well as the unsuccessful strategic deployment on the border of the Russian armies, their lack of unified leadership, forced the army commanders to look for a way out of the current situation, which was seen in the speedy connection of the 1st and 2nd Western armies. But this could only be accomplished by retreating deeper into its territory along converging directions.

With rearguard battles, the Russian armies were forced to retreat...

With rearguard battles, the 1st and 2nd Western armies were forced to retreat under the pressure of superior enemy forces. The 1st Western Army left Vilna and retreated to the Dris camp, and soon a gap of 200 km opened between the armies. The main forces of Napoleonic troops rushed into it, which occupied Minsk on June 26 (July 8) and created the threat of defeating the Russian armies one by one.

However, such an offensive movement of the French did not go smoothly for them. On June 16 (28), the rearguard detachment of the major general gave a stubborn battle to the vanguard of the marshal's corps near Vilkomir. On the same day, the general's flying Cossack corps fought with the enemy near Grodno.

After capturing Vilna without a fight, Napoleon, changing plans, decided to attack the 2nd Western Army, encircle it and destroy it. For this purpose, the troops of E. Beauharnais (30 thousand people) and J. Bonaparte (55 thousand people) were allocated, and the 50 thousand-strong corps of Marshal L. Davout was ordered, moving east of Minsk, to go to the Russian rear and close the encirclement.

P.I. Bagration managed to avoid the threat of encirclement only through a forced retreat in a southeastern direction. Skillfully maneuvering among the Belarusian forests, the commander quickly withdrew his troops through Bobruisk to Mogilev.

On July 6 (18), Emperor Alexander I addressed the people of Russia with an appeal to gather within the state.

The “Great Army” was melting before our eyes as it moved deeper into Russia. The French emperor had to allocate significant forces against those Russian troops who were on his flanks. On the way to Moscow, the 30,000-strong corps of Ch. Rainier and the 3rd Western Army were left behind. Against the 26 thousand-strong corps of the lieutenant general, operating in the St. Petersburg direction, the corps of N. Oudinot (38 thousand people) and (30 thousand people) were detached from the main forces. A 55,000-strong corps was sent to capture Riga.

After the French occupied Mogilev, the Russian armies continued to retreat in the direction of Smolensk. During the retreat, several fierce rearguard battles took place - near Mir, Ostrovno and Saltanovka.

A. Adam. Battle of Ostrovno July 27, 1812 1845

In the battle near the town of Mir on June 27 (July 9), the Cossack cavalry of cavalry general M.I. Platova inflicted a severe defeat on the enemy cavalry. On July 11 (23) near Saltanovka, the 26th Infantry Division of Major General I.F. fought valiantly. Paskevich, which withstood the blow of superior French forces.

N.S. Samokish. The feat of Raevsky's soldiers near Saltanovka. 1912

Smolensk and Polotsk battles, battles at Kobrin and Gorodechny

On July 22 (August 3), the Russian armies united near Smolensk, keeping their main forces combat-ready. The first big battle of the Patriotic War of 1812 took place here. The Battle of Smolensk lasted three days: from August 4 (16) to August 6 (18).

The Russian regiments repelled all the attacks of the French and retreated only on orders, leaving the enemy a burning city, in which out of 2,250 houses only about 350 survived. Almost all the inhabitants left it with the troops. Courageous resistance near Smolensk thwarted Napoleon's plan to impose a general battle on the main Russian forces in unfavorable conditions for them.

P.A. Krivonogov. Defense of Smolensk. 1966

Failures plagued the advancing “Great Army” not only near Smolensk and Valutina Gora. An attempt by the French with the corps of N. Oudinot and L. Saint-Cyr (reinforced by Bavarian troops) to advance in the St. Petersburg direction ended in defeat during the battles of Klyastitsy and Golovchitsy on July 18-20 (July 30 - August 1). The corps of General S. Rainier failed at Kobrin on July 15 (27) and at Gorodechna on July 31 (August 12), and Marshal J. MacDonald was unable to capture Riga.

Appointment of Commander-in-Chief M.I. Kutuzova

After the battles for Smolensk, the united Russian armies continued to retreat towards Moscow. M.B.’s retreat strategy, unpopular neither in the army nor in Russian society. Barclay de Tolly, leaving significant territory to the enemy forced Emperor Alexander I to establish the post of commander-in-chief of all Russian armies and on August 8 (20) appoint a 66-year-old infantry general to it.

His candidacy was unanimously supported by the Extraordinary Committee for the Selection of the Commander-in-Chief. Commander Kutuzov, who had extensive combat experience, was popular both among the Russian army and among the nobility. The emperor not only placed him at the head of the active army, but also subordinated to him the militias, reserves and civil authorities in the war-affected provinces.

Couriers were sent from the capital to the headquarters of the 1st, 2nd, 3rd Western and Danube armies with notification of the appointment of the commander-in-chief. August 17 (29) M.I. Kutuzov arrived at army headquarters. When Napoleon learned about the appearance of the commander-in-chief, so familiar to him, in the enemy’s camp, he uttered a phrase that became prophetic: “Kutuzov could not come in order to continue the retreat.”

The Russian commander was greeted by the troops with great enthusiasm. The soldiers said: “Kutuzov came to beat the French.” Everyone understood that now the war would take on a completely different character. The troops started talking about an imminent general battle with Napoleon’s “Grand Army” and that the retreat had come to an end.

S.V. Gerasimov. Arrival of M.I. Kutuzov in Tsarevo-Zaimishche. 1957

However, the commander-in-chief refused to give a general battle to the enemy at Tsarevo-Zaimishche, considering the chosen position unfavorable for the Russian troops. Having withdrawn the army for several marches towards Moscow, M.I. Kutuzov stopped in front of the city of Mozhaisk. The vast field near the village of Borodino made it possible to position troops with the greatest advantage and simultaneously block the Old and New Smolensk roads.

August 23 (September 4) Field Marshal M.I. Golenishchev-Kutuzov reported to Emperor Alexander I: “The position in which I stopped at the village of Borodino, 12 versts ahead of Mozhaisk, is one of the best, which can only be found on flat places. The weak point of this position, which is located on the left flank, I will try to correct with art. It is desirable that the enemy attack us in this position; then I have great hope of victory.”

The offensive of Napoleon's “Great Army” during the Patriotic War of 1812

Battle for Shevardinsky redoubt

The Battle of Borodino had its own prologue - the battle for the Shevardinsky redoubt on August 24 (September 5) on the extreme left flank of the Russian position. Here the 27th Infantry Division of the Major General and the 5th Jaeger Regiment held the defense. In the second line stood the 4th Cavalry Corps of Major General K.K. Sievers. In total, these troops, under the overall command of a lieutenant general, numbered 8 thousand infantry, 4 thousand cavalry with 36 guns.

A fierce and bloody battle broke out near the unfinished pentagonal earthen redoubt. Three infantry divisions of the corps of Marshal L. Davout and the cavalry corps of generals E. Nansouty and L.-P. approached Shevardino. Montbrun tried to take the redoubt on the move. In total, about 30 thousand infantry, 10 thousand cavalry attacked this field fortification of Russian troops, and the fire of 186 guns fell. That is, at the beginning of the Battle of Shevardin, the French had more than three times superiority in forces and overwhelming superiority in artillery.

More and more troops were drawn into the matter. The firefight over and over again escalated into hand-to-hand combat. The redoubt changed hands three times that day. Taking advantage of their numerical superiority, the French, after a stubborn four-hour battle, still occupied the almost completely destroyed fortification by 8 pm, but were unable to keep it in their hands. Infantry General P.I. Bagration, who personally led the battle, having carried out a strong counterattack at night with the forces of the 2nd Grenadier and 2nd Cuirassier Divisions, again occupied the fortification. During that battle, the French 57th, 61st and 111th linear regiments defending in the redoubt suffered significant casualties.

The field fortification was completely destroyed by artillery fire. Kutuzov realized that the redoubt could no longer pose a serious obstacle to Napoleonic troops, and ordered Bagration to retreat to the Semenov flushes. At 11 o'clock in the evening, the Russians left the Shevardinsky redoubt and took the guns with them. Three of them with broken carriages became enemy trophies.

French losses in the Battle of Shevardin amounted to about 5 thousand people, Russian losses were approximately the same. When the next day Napoleon inspected the 61st line regiment, the most damaged in the battle, he asked the regimental commander where one of his two battalions had gone. He replied: “Sire, he is in the redoubt.”



The general battle of the Patriotic War of 1812 took place on August 26 (September 7) on the Borodino field, famous for Russian weapons. When the “Great Army” approached Borodino, Kutuzov’s army prepared to meet it. Field fortifications were erected on the field at Kurgan Heights (Raevsky's battery) and near the village of Semenovskoye (unfinished Semenovsky, or Bagrationovsky, flashes).

Napoleon brought with him about 135 thousand people with 587 guns. Kutuzov had about 150 thousand people with 624 guns. But this number included 28 thousand poorly armed and untrained warriors of the Smolensk and Moscow militias and about 8 thousand irregular (Cossack) cavalry. The regular troops (113-114 thousand) also included 14.6 thousand recruits. Russian artillery had superiority in the number of large-caliber guns, but 186 of this number were not in combat positions, but in the main artillery reserve.

The battle began at 5 a.m. and lasted until 8 p.m. During the entire day, Napoleon failed to either break through the Russian position in the center or bypass it from the flanks. The partial tactical successes of the French army - the Russians retreated about 1 km from their original position - did not become victorious for it. Late in the evening, the frustrated and bloodless French troops were withdrawn to their original positions. The Russian field fortifications they took were so destroyed that there was no longer any point in holding them. Napoleon never managed to defeat the Russian army.

The Battle of Borodino did not become decisive in the Patriotic War of 1812. Napoleon Bonaparte failed to achieve the main goal of his campaign in Russia - to defeat the Russian army in a general battle. He won tactically, but lost strategically. It is no coincidence that the great Russian writer Lev Nikolaevich Tolstoy considered the Battle of Borodino a moral victory for the Russians.

Since the losses in the battle were enormous and their reserves exhausted, the Russian army withdrew from the Borodino field, retreating to Moscow, while fighting a rearguard action. On September 1 (13), at the military council in Fili, a majority of votes supported the decision of the commander-in-chief “for the sake of preserving the army and Russia” to leave Moscow to the enemy without a fight. The next day, September 2 (14), Russian troops left the capital.

Change of strategic initiative

Under the cover of a rearguard commanded by an infantry general, the Main Russian Army carried out the Tarutino march-maneuver and settled in the Tarutino camp, reliably covering the south of the country.

Napoleon, who occupied Moscow after a catastrophic fire, languished for 36 days in the burnt-out huge city, waiting in vain for an answer to his proposal to Alexander I for peace, naturally, on terms favorable to him: after all, the French “struck Russia in the heart.”

However, during this time, the peasantry of the war-torn Great Russian provinces rose up in a large-scale people's war. Army partisan detachments were active. The active army was replenished by more than a dozen regiments of irregular cavalry, primarily 26 regiments of the Don Cossack militia.

Regiments of the Danube Army were redeployed to the south, to Volhynia, which, united with the 3rd Observation Army under the command of the admiral, carried out successful operations against the enemy. They pushed back the Austrian and Saxon corps of the “Grand Army”, occupied Minsk, where the French rear stores were located, and captured Borisov.

The troops of the French emperor were actually surrounded: Borisov, located in front of them, was occupied by the Russians, Wittgenstein's corps was hanging from the north, and the Main Army was moving from the east. In such a critical situation, Napoleon demonstrated extraordinary energy and high skill as a commander. He distracted the attention of Admiral P.V. Chichagova arranged a false crossing south of Borisov, and he himself was able to transfer the remnants of the troops across two hastily built bridges across the Berezina at Studenka.

Yu. Falat. Bridge over the Berezina. 1890

But crossing the Berezina was a disaster for the “Great Army”. She lost here, according to various estimates, from 25 to 40 thousand people killed, wounded and captured. Nevertheless, Napoleon managed to bring out and preserve for the future the flower of his generals, most of the officer corps and the imperial guard.

P. Hess. Crossing the Berezina. 1840s

The liberation of the territory of the Russian Empire from the enemy ended on December 14 (26), when Russian troops occupied the border cities of Bialystok and Brest-Litovsk.

In an order to the army, “the savior of the Fatherland,” Field Marshal Mikhail Illarionovich Golenishchev-Kutuzov, Prince of Smolensky, congratulated the troops on the complete expulsion of the enemy from Russia and called on them to “complete the defeat of the enemy on his own fields.” This is how the Patriotic War of 1812 ended, or, as the great Russian poet A.S. called it. Pushkin, “The Thunderstorm of the Twelfth Year.”

“The enemy with poor remnants fled across our border”

The main result of the Patriotic War of 1812 was the virtual destruction of the “Great Army” of Emperor Napoleon I. His political prestige and the military power of his empire were irreparably damaged.

Unknown artist. Napoleon's departure from the army in 1812

It is believed that out of 608 thousand people who participated in Napoleonic’s Russian campaign, approximately 30 thousand people crossed the Neman. Only the corps of the Austrians, Prussians and Saxons operating on the flanks of the “Great Army” suffered minor losses. More than 550 thousand soldiers and officers from Western European countries died on the fields of Russia or were captured. The chief of staff of the Grand Army, Marshal A. Berthier, reported to the French emperor: “The army no longer exists.”

E. Kossak. Napoleon's retreat from Russia. 1827

M.I. Golenishchev-Kutuzov wrote to Alexander I at the end of the war: “The enemy with his poor remnants fled across our border.” His report to the emperor about the results of the 1812 campaign said: “Napoleon entered with 480 thousand, and withdrew about 20 thousand, leaving 150 thousand prisoners and 850 guns in place.”

Retreat of Napoleon's Grand Army from Russia

The official end of the Patriotic War of 1812 is considered to be the manifesto of Emperor Alexander I dated December 25 of the same year. In it, the victorious sovereign publicly announced that he had kept his word not to stop the war “until one of the enemies remains on Our land.”

The collapse of the Napoleonic invasion of Russia and the death of the “Great Army” in its vastness did not yet mean that Napoleonic France was defeated. But the victory of Russian arms in 1812 dramatically changed the political climate in Europe. Soon, the Prussian Kingdom and the Austrian Empire, allies of France, became allies of Russia, whose army became the core of the forces of the 6th anti-French coalition.

Material prepared by the Research Institute (military history)
Military Academy of the General Staff
Armed Forces of the Russian Federation

1. Insoluble contradictions between France and Russia.

2. Aggressive foreign policy of the French Empire.

3. Napoleon's open desire for world domination.

II. Plans of the parties

France. Napoleon's goal: to impose border battles. Defeat the Russian armies one by one during several pitched battles.

Russia. Goal: avoid border battles. Retreat in order to unite the Russian armies.

1st Russian Army of Barclay de Tolly - 120 thousand people in the north of Lithuania.

2nd Army of Bagration - 49 thousand people In the south of Lithuania.

3rd Army of Tormasov - 58 thousand people in Volyn.

Wittgenstein Corps (cover for the capital) - 38 thousand people near Riga.

III. Main events of the Patriotic War of 1812

August 4-6, 1812 - defeat of Russian troops in the battle for Smolensk; Napoleon's peace proposal to Alexander.

IV. Foreign campaign of the Russian army

4. Peace of Paris (May 1814) - the return of France to the borders of 1792, the restoration of the Bourbon dynasty (Restoration).

Lecture 38

Nicholas' foreign policyI. Crimean War (1853-1856)

The Crimean War is a special event in the history of Russian foreign policy, which had a significant impact on international relations and the internal situation of the empire. On the one hand, the war showed the political and economic weakness of Russia, the inability of the army to take active military action due to backwardness and unpreparedness. On the other hand, it demonstrated the heroism of Russian soldiers, their ability to stand up for the interests of Russia.

Participating in the war were Russia, the Ottoman Empire, England and France. Each of these countries had its own interests and expected victory. The war was unjust and aggressive both on the part of Russia and on the part of the Anglo-French-Turkish coalition formed against it.

The Crimean War should be divided into two stages:

Russian-Turkish campaign 1853-1854 – Danube Front

Anglo-French intervention in Crimea and military operations on the Caucasian front

After Turkey declared war, the Russian fleet, led by admirals Kornilov and Nakhimov, defeated the Turkish fleet and coastal batteries in Sinop Bay.

The Battle of Sinop accelerated the entry of England and France into the war. In April 1854, a whole bloc of capitalist European states came out against Russia. England and France considered it necessary to capture Sevastopol, the largest naval base on the Black Sea.

The defense of Sevastopol was prepared under the leadership of admirals Kornilov and Nakhimov and engineer Totleben. By order of Nakhimov, the Russian fleet was scuttled in the Sevastopol Bay, blocking the way for the enemy’s naval landing.

In October 1854, the siege and heroic defense of the city began, which lasted 11 months. After the death of Kornilov, overall command was assumed by Admiral Nakhimov, who was mortally wounded in June 1855. The heroic defense of Sevastopol ended in the defeat of the Russian forces.

In the Caucasus, Russian troops suffered defeats.

On March 18, 1856, the Treaty of Paris was signed, ending the Crimean War. Russia's international prestige was undermined. She was prohibited from having a navy, military arsenals and fortresses on the coast on the Black Sea. The straits were closed to warships of all powers (except Turkey). Russia was deprived of the mouth of the Danube, the southern part of Bessarabia, and the right of patronage of Serbia and the Danube principalities.

Reforms of the 60s – 70s of the 19th century in Russia, their consequences

By the middle of the 19th century. Russia's lag behind advanced capitalist states in the economic and socio-political spheres became clear. International events (the Crimean War) showed a significant weakening of Russia in the foreign policy area. Therefore, the main goal of the government’s domestic policy in the second half of the 19th century. was to bring the economic and socio-political system of Russia in line with the needs of the time.

Zemstvo reform

After the abolition of serfdom, it became necessary to change local government in 1864. zemstvo reform. Zemstvo institutions (zemstvos) were created in provinces and districts. These were elected bodies from representatives of all classes. The scope of their activity was limited to solving economic issues of local importance: the arrangement and maintenance of communication routes, zemstvo schools and hospitals, care for trade and industry. Zemstvos were under the control of central and local authorities, who had the right to suspend any resolution of the zemstvo assembly. Despite this, zemstvos played a huge role in the development of education and health care and became centers for the formation of the liberal noble and bourgeois opposition.

Urban reform. (1870)

“City regulations” created all-class bodies in cities - city dumas and city councils headed by the city mayor. They dealt with the improvement of the city, took care of trade, and provided educational and medical needs. The leading role belonged to the big bourgeoisie. It was under strict control of the government administration. The candidacy of the mayor was approved by the governor.

Judicial reform:

1864 - New judicial statutes promulgated.

Provisions:

the class system of courts was abolished

equality of all before the law was declared

publicity of proceedings was introduced

adversarial proceedings

presumption of innocence

irremovability of judges

unified judicial system

Military reform: 1874

The period of active service was established in the ground forces - 6 years, in the navy - 7 years. Recruitment was abolished. The duration of active military service was determined by educational qualifications. Persons with higher education served for six months. The army was reduced and military settlements were liquidated. In the 60s, the rearmament of the army began: replacing smooth-bore weapons with rifled ones, introducing steel artillery pieces, improving the horse park, and developing a military steam fleet. Military gymnasiums, cadet schools and academies were created to train officers. All this made it possible to reduce the size of the army in peacetime and at the same time increase its combat effectiveness.

Education reform: 1864

In fact, accessible all-class education was introduced. Along with state schools, zemstvo, parochial, Sunday and private schools arose. Gymnasiums were divided into classical and real. The curriculum in gymnasiums was determined by universities, which created the possibility of a system of continuity. During this period, secondary women's education began to develop, and women's gymnasiums began to be created. Women are beginning to be admitted as free students to higher education institutions.

Significance of reforms:

contributed to the faster development of capitalist relations in Russia.

contributed to the beginning of the formation of bourgeois freedoms in Russian society (freedom of speech, individuals, organizations, etc.).

The first steps were taken to expand the role of the public in the life of the country and transform Russia into a bourgeois monarchy.

contributed to the formation of civic consciousness.

contributed to the rapid development of culture and education in Russia.

Lecture 40

Populism in Russia

In the 70s, several similar movements of utopian socialism emerged, called “populism.” The populists believed that thanks to the peasant community (“a cell of socialism”) and the qualities of the peasant community worker (“a revolutionary by instinct,” “a born communist”), Russia would be able to directly transition to a socialist system. The views of the theoreticians of populism (Bakunin, Lavrov, Tkachev) differed on issues of tactics, but they all saw the main obstacle to socialism in state power and believed that a secret organization, revolutionary leaders should rouse the people to revolt and lead them to victory.

The “rebellious” (anarchist) trend was headed by Bakunin (1814-1876), an active participant in the revolutionary events of 1848-1849. He was repeatedly tried and sentenced to death, but in 1861 he managed to escape from Siberia abroad.

Bakunin was familiar with Marx and was at odds with him in the First International, and also tried to lead the latter along the anarchist path. He proclaimed the need for revolution and was against the existing system.

He was opposed to the idea of ​​the dictatorship of the proletariat. His ideal was a “Free federation of workers’ associations – agricultural and factory-craft.” He relied in everything on the peasantry, the semi-proletarian strata and the lumpen proletariat.

In Russian conditions, “Bakunism” comes down to “peasant socialism.” Bakunin inspired that the Russian people were constantly ready for an uprising. He considered the rebellion useful, however, he said that everyone should speak out at once.

A major role in Bakunin’s popularity was played by the books he wrote, “Statehood and Anarchy,” and especially “Additions A.”

P.L. Lavrov and the “Laurists”

Another theoretical direction in populism (“propaganda”) was headed by Lavrov, the head of a movement that competed with the Bakuninists. Scientist, writer, professor at the Artillery Academy of St. Petersburg, in the 50-60s. After an attempt on the life of the Tsar, he was arrested and exiled to the Vologda province, from where he fled abroad in 1870. In exile, he wrote “Historical Letters,” in which the question was raised about the “price of progress.”

The “Lavrists,” unlike the Bakuninists, argued that they were not ready for an uprising and that it needed to be prepared. In 1874, Lavrov wrote that the Russian revolution should “at once overthrow the economic foundations of the present social system.”

P.N.Tkachev

The “conspiratorial” trend in populism was headed by P.N. Tkachev. Tkachev believed that the people cannot implement the ideas of social revolution; only a conspiracy of intellectuals - the “revolutionary minority” - is capable of this. In his opinion, in Russia the activity of the conspirators was greatly facilitated by the fact that the autocracy is a fiction, “hanging in the air”, without support and support. Several blows to the “abandoned government” should lead to its fall, after which the captured state apparatus will be used by the revolutionaries. Tkachev's supporters thought that the communist instincts inherent in the Russian peasantry would then make it possible to implement socialist ideas in the country and turn Russia into an exemplary socialist country.

At the turn of the 60s and 70s, numerous populist circles arose in Russia. Among them, the society of “Tchaikovites” (Tchaikovsky, Zhelyabov, Perovskaya, etc.) stood out. Members of the society conducted propaganda among peasants and workers, and then actually led the “going to the people.” The government unleashed a wave of repression on the populists.

At the end of 1876, a new organization of populists arose - the second “Land and Freedom”. Soon two trends arose in the organization: some were inclined to continue propaganda work, others considered terrorism the only means of bringing the revolution closer. In August 1879 the final split occurred. Supporters of propaganda united in the “Black Redistribution”, supporters of terror - in the “People's Will”.

Lecture 41

Social and political movement in Russia in the second halfXIXV.:

revolutionaries and liberals

Liberal movement second half of the 19th century was the widest in Russia and had many different shades. Already at the turn of the 30s and 40s, two liberal movements appeared in Russia, between which there was a sharp ideological dispute about the fate of Russia - Westerners and Slavophiles. Westerners believed that Russia and Western Europe were developing along the same path, that parliamentarism would be established in Russia. Slavophiles believed that Russia was developing along its own special path, which would allow it to avoid capitalism. The key to this is the community and the patriarchy of the peasantry. But both of them advocated the abolition of serfdom.

Liberals advocated the peaceful establishment of constitutional forms of government, political and civil liberties and the education of the people. Being supporters of legal forms of struggle, liberals acted through the press and zemstvo.

In the conditions of the political crisis at the turn of the 50-60s, they intensified their activities revolutionary democrats. The ideological center of this trend was the magazine Sovremennik, which was headed by Chernyshevsky and Dobrolyubov. In the course of an acute socio-political struggle, Chernyshevsky developed a program of social reforms: the elimination of landownership and the transfer of land to peasants, the elimination of autocracy and the establishment of a democratic republic, the destruction of class privileges and the democratization of the entire social structure of Russia.

The magazine Kolokol2, created abroad by Herzen, was of great importance for influencing public opinion in Russia. At the end of 1861, the Revolutionary circles of Russia created the organization “Land and Freedom”. Its ideological leader was Chernyshevsky.

“Land and Freedom” was the first major revolutionary-democratic secret organization in Russia. In their publications, they explained to peasants, soldiers and students the tasks of the upcoming revolution, substantiated the need for the elimination of autocracy and a fair solution to the agrarian question. Democratic transformation of Russia.

After 1861, the peasant movement began to decline. Many revolutionaries (including Chernyshevsky) were arrested, others emigrated. By the spring of 1864, “Land and Freedom” ceased to exist. However, the revolutionary democratic movement did not completely die out.

Lecture 42

Expansion of the state territory of Russia in the second halfXIXV

Russia's defeat in the Crimean War dramatically changed the balance of power on the world stage: Russia found itself isolated and actually lost its role as the strongest power. She was forced to realize her foreign policy goals in the context of an intensified struggle for the territorial division of the world and for hegemony in Europe between France and the strengthening Prussia, which sought to unite the German states under its auspices into a single empire.

Russian diplomacy has achieved significant successes in the Far East: as a result of peace negotiations with China, the Amur and Primorye regions were assigned to Russia. A great contribution to the organization of the development of the Far East was made by the Governor-General of Eastern Siberia N. N. Muravyov, who received the title of Count and the honorary prefix Amur for his services. Vladivostok was founded in 1860, and in 1871 it became the base of the Siberian military flotilla. At the same time, the weakness of Russian positions in the Pacific Ocean, the remoteness of the region and financial difficulties forced the Russian government to sell Alaska and its other possessions in North America to the United States in 1867. In 1868 the Russian-American Company was liquidated. According to the 1875 treaty with Japan, the entire island of Sakhalin was recognized as Russian possession, and the Kuril Islands were ceded to Japan.

The main arena of military and diplomatic conflicts involving Russia in the second half of the 19th century. turned out to be the Balkans.

The main task of the foreign policy of the Russian government was the abolition of the restrictive articles of the Paris Peace Treaty of 1856. A. M. Gorchakov, appointed Minister of Foreign Affairs in 1856, began to resolve this through a complex diplomatic game on the contradictions between the leading European powers. He began with a rapprochement with France, which was interested in supporting Russia in connection with the worsening relations with Austria. As a result, Russia emerged from diplomatic and political isolation, and its prestige in the Balkans increased again.

Since the mid-1860s. The attention of the Russian government was attracted by the problems of Central Asia: constant attacks by Bukhara, Khiva and Kokand troops on Russian trade caravans and border lands, as well as the threat of British expansion in this region prompted Russia to intensify its policy. As a result of campaigns against the Kokand, Bukhara and Khiva khanates, Bukhara and Khiva recognized their vassal dependence on Russia. The Kokand Khanate was liquidated, and its territory became part of Russia. The Turkestan General Government was established on the lands occupied by Russian troops.

In the 1880s Russian policy in Central Asia intensified again: as a result of the Akhalket expeditions, Turkmen lands became part of Russia, Russian possessions came close to the borders of Afghanistan.

By the end of the 19th century. The territory of Russia was 22.4 million square meters. km. According to the 1897 census, the population was 128.2 million people. The territory of the empire was divided into 81 provinces and 20 regions; There were 931 cities in the country.

Lecture 43

Alexander III. Domestic policy of Russia in the 80-90s. XIX century

After the death of Alexander II from a terrorist bomb, his son Emperor Alexander III ascended the throne at the age of 36. Honest, strong-willed and hardworking, Alexander Alexandrovich was at the same time a rather limited person. Unfamiliar with the first successes of his father’s reforms, he found himself already in an era of discord between government and society, government hesitation, and social upheaval. The ideals of the heir were unlimited autocracy, strict guardianship over society, strengthening the class framework, strengthening Russian principles on the outskirts of the empire, and original development (without European borrowings).

The trial of the regicides demonstrated the turn of public opinion from liberal illusions to the demands of a “strong hand.” On April 3, 1881, five Narodnaya Volya members (Zhelyabov, Perovskaya, Kibalchich, etc.) were publicly hanged.

Under Alexander III, many of the reforms carried out by his father's government not only did not receive further development, but were seriously curtailed, and some were outright cancelled.

The main activities of the new government were “eradicating sedition” and calming the public.

The authorities were given the right to arrest, put on military trial and administrative expulsion, declare closed trials, close educational institutions, ban the publication of newspapers, etc.

The size of the gendarme corps increased significantly. Secret investigative departments were created everywhere to protect public safety and order, where secret agents and provocateurs were used.

Since 1882, the government of Alexander III took a course towards strengthening and strengthening the power of the autocratic monarchy and began to formalize the policy of so-called counter-reforms. The concept of the new political course was finally formed by the mid-80s and consisted of proclaiming the inviolability of autocracy, the inadmissibility of any transformations of the existing government, the centralization of power and the limitation of the rights of local self-government, and the complete inviolability of the rights of the nobility.

Lecture 44

Russia at the turnXIX- XXcenturies. Features of socio-economic development.

Bourgeois reforms of the 60-70s of the 19th century. contributed to the development of Russian capitalism. Russia, later than many European countries, embarked on the path of capitalist development. The pace of development of capitalism and the level of concentration of industrial production in Russia were higher. In the second half of the 19th century, the social structure of the Russian population changed. According to the All-Russian census of 1897, the country's population was 125.6 million people. There were about 70% peasants, burghers  11%, population of the national outskirts  2.3%, nobles  1.5%, merchants  0.5%, clergy  0.5%.

The distribution of the population by class shows an increase in the number of the big bourgeoisie, landowners and higher officials - up to 2.4%. The number of social strata characteristic of the capitalist era - proletarians, middle and petty bourgeoisie - has increased.

Industrial development. The emergence of new industrial areas.

Capitalism in industry passed through three stages:

1. Small-scale production (mainly peasant crafts),

2. Capitalist manufacture,

3. Capitalist factory, when machine industry arises.

In the early 80s, Russia completed the industrial revolution. Machine labor replaced manual labor. Steam engines and mechanical machines were widely used.

New industrial centers appeared. During the second half of the 19th century, coal production increased almost 30 times, and oil production - 700 times. Factory settlements arose.

Railway construction developed. In the mid-50s of the XIX century. The Nikolaevskaya railway was built, which connected Moscow with St. Petersburg. At the end of the 70s, railway construction began on the outskirts of Russia: in Transcaucasia, Central Asia, and Siberia. The initiator of the “railway boom” was the Minister of Railways S.Yu. Witte. In the 90s, construction of the Trans-Siberian railway was underway.

The development of capitalism in agriculture.

In agriculture, the stratification of the peasantry has increased. There was a process of “de-peasantization”, i.e. separation of the rural bourgeoisie and the rural proletariat. Technology was used more widely and specialization deepened. The more rapid development of capitalism was hampered by the remnants of serfdom: the preservation of landownership, the lack of land for peasants, the preservation of temporary obligations until 1881, redemption payments until 1906.

Lecture 45

Outstanding state Russian figures of the endXIX- startedXXV. (S.Yu. Witte, P.A. Stolypin)

Witte Sergey Yulievich

Born into the family of a major official. Graduated from the Faculty of Physics and Mathematics of Novorossiysk University (Odessa). He worked in private railway companies for about 20 years. S.Yu. Witte held the high positions of Minister of Railways and Minister of Finance. He initiated the introduction of a wine monopoly, monetary reform, and the construction of the Trans-Siberian Railway.

Since August 1903 - Chairman of the Committee of Ministers. In 1905, he headed the Russian delegation that signed the Portsmouth Peace Treaty between Russia and Japan, for which he received the title of count.

Emperor Nicholas II signed the Manifesto compiled with the participation of Witte on October 19, 1905, which laid the foundations for the new constitutional structure of the empire. Witte was appointed Chairman of the Council of Ministers. However, Witte turned out to be too “left” for the bulk of the nobility and the top of the ruling bureaucracy and too “right” for the bourgeois-liberal circles of the Octobrist-Cadet persuasion.

Witte resigned, which was accepted on April 16, 1906. He spent the last years of his life in St. Petersburg and abroad. While remaining a member of the State Council, Witte took part in the work of the Finance Committee, of which he was chairman until his death. In 1907-1912. Witte wrote “Memoirs,” which are of significant interest for characterizing the policies of the tsarist government.

Stolypin Pyotr Arkadevich

Statesman. Born into an old noble family. Graduated from the Faculty of Physics and Mathematics of St. Petersburg University. A large landowner, a convinced monarchist. In 1903 he became governor of Saratov. During the peasant unrest in the summer of 1905, he showed energy, toughness, and personal courage.

In April 1906 he was appointed Minister of the Interior and in July - simultaneously Chairman of the Council of Ministers. In Russia, a decree was adopted on military courts, in which legal proceedings were completed within 48 hours, and the sentence was executed within 24 hours. According to researchers, from August 1906 to April 1907, 1,102 death sentences were imposed, and the gallows began to be called “Stolypin’s tie.” There were 11 attempts on Stolypin’s life.

After the defeat of the first Russian revolution, Stolypin's government began to carry out reforms, the main of which was agrarian. Stolypin's idea was to solve the agrarian problem without affecting landownership, enriching some peasants at the expense of others. Stolypin's independent position restored the nobility against him, who argued Nicholas II that the prime minister transfers power to the bourgeoisie; open confrontation with G.E. Rasputin aroused the enmity of Empress Alexandra Feodorovna. His influence was declining. Stolypin was killed by a terrorist D.G. Bogrov. Obstacles imposed on Stolypin “from above” accelerated the solution of accumulated problems by the revolutionary upheaval of 1917.

Lecture 46

Revolution of 1905-1907 in Russia: causes, main political forces, worker and peasant movement, anti-government protests in the army

Causes:

By the beginning of the 20th century, the following contradictions had become extremely aggravated in Russia, which were the causes of the first Russian revolution.

1) The contradiction between landowners and peasants. The land question was the main socio-economic issue of the First Russian Revolution.

2) The contradiction between workers and capitalists due to the high degree of exploitation of workers in Russia.

3) The contradiction between the autocracy and all segments of the population due to the complete political lack of rights of the vast majority of the country

4) The contradiction between the autocracy and all non-Russian nations and nationalities due to the Russification policy pursued by the autocracy. Non-Russian nations and nationalities demanded cultural and national autonomy from the autocracy.

One of the main issues of any revolution is the question of power. In relation to him, various socio-political forces in Russia united into three camps. First camp were supporters of autocracy. They either did not recognize the changes at all, or agreed to the existence of a legislative advisory body under the autocrat. These are, first of all, reactionary landowners, the highest ranks of state bodies, the army, the police, part of the bourgeoisie directly connected with tsarism, and many zemstvo leaders. Second camp consisted of representatives of the liberal bourgeoisie and liberal intelligentsia, the advanced nobility, office workers, the city petty bourgeoisie, and part of the peasants. They advocated the preservation of the monarchy, but a constitutional, parliamentary one.

IN third camp - revolutionary-democratic - included the proletariat, part of the peasantry, the poorest layers of the petty bourgeoisie, etc. Their interests were expressed by Social Democrats, Socialist Revolutionaries, anarchists and other political forces.

First Russian Revolution , which had a bourgeois-democratic character, lasted for 2.5 years - from January 9, 1905 to June 3, 1907.

Conventionally, the revolution can be divided into 3 stages:

Istage . January 9 – September 1905- the beginning of the revolution and its development along an ascending line.

IIstage . October–December 1905- the highest rise of the revolution, the culmination of which was an armed uprising in Moscow.

IIIstage. January 1906 – June 3, 1907- the period of the descending line of the revolution.

The Patriotic War of 1812 is war between the French and Russian empires, which took place on the territory. Despite the superiority of the French army, under the leadership, the Russian troops managed to show incredible valor and ingenuity.

Moreover, the Russians managed to emerge victorious in this difficult confrontation. To this day, the victory over the French is considered one of the most significant in Russia.

We bring to your attention a brief history of the Patriotic War of 1812.

Causes and nature of the war

The Patriotic War of 1812 occurred as a result of Napoleon's desire for world domination. Before this, he managed to successfully defeat many opponents.

His main and only enemy in Europe remained. The French Emperor wanted to destroy Britain through a continental blockade.

It is worth noting that 5 years before the start of the Patriotic War of 1812, the Tilsit Peace Treaty was signed between France and Russia. However, the main point of this agreement was not published then. According to him, he pledged to support Napoleon in the blockade directed against Great Britain.

However, both the French and the Russians were well aware that sooner or later a war would also break out between them, since Napoleon Bonaparte was not going to stop at subjugating Europe alone.

That is why countries began to actively prepare for a future war, building up their military potential and increasing the size of their armies.

Patriotic War of 1812 briefly

In 1812, Napoleon Bonaparte invaded the territory of the Russian Empire. Thus, for this war it became Patriotic, since not only the army, but also the majority of ordinary citizens took part in it.

Balance of power

Before the start of the Patriotic War of 1812, Napoleon managed to assemble a huge army, which included about 675 thousand soldiers.

All of them were well armed and, most importantly, had extensive combat experience, because by that time France had subjugated almost all of Europe.

The Russian army was almost as good as the French in the number of troops, which numbered about 600 thousand. In addition, about 400 thousand more Russian militias took part in the war.

Moreover, unlike the French, the advantage of the Russians was that they were patriotic and fought for the liberation of their land, thanks to which the national spirit rose.

In Napoleon’s army, with patriotism, things were exactly the opposite, because there were many hired soldiers who did not care what or what they fought for.

Moreover, Alexander 1 managed to arm his army well and seriously strengthen the artillery, which, as it soon became clear, surpassed the French.

In addition, the Russian troops were commanded by such experienced military leaders as Bagration, Raevsky, Miloradovich and the famous Kutuzov.

It should also be understood that in terms of the number of people and food supplies, Russia, located on its own soil, was superior to France.

Plans of the parties

At the very beginning of the Patriotic War of 1812, Napoleon planned to launch a lightning attack on Russia, seizing significant territory.

After this, he intended to conclude a new agreement with Alexander 1, according to which the Russian Empire was to submit to France.

Having extensive experience in battles, Bonaparte vigilantly ensured that the divided Russian troops did not unite together. He believed that it would be much easier for him to defeat the enemy when he was divided into parts.

Even before the start of the war, Alexander 1 publicly stated that neither he nor his army should make any compromises with the French. Moreover, he planned to fight Bonaparte’s army not on his territory, but outside it, somewhere in the western part of Europe.

In case of failure, the Russian emperor was ready to retreat to the north, and from there continue to fight Napoleon. An interesting fact is that at that time Russia did not have a single clearly thought-out plan for waging war.

Stages of the war

The Patriotic War of 1812 took place in 2 stages. At the first stage, the Russians planned to retreat back deliberately in order to lure the French into a trap, as well as to disrupt Napoleon's tactical plan.

The next step was to be a counter-offensive, which would force the enemy out of the Russian Empire.

History of the Patriotic War of 1812

On June 12, 1812, Napoleonic army crossed the Neman, after which it entered Russia. The 1st and 2nd Russian armies came out to meet them, deliberately not engaging in open battle with the enemy.

They fought rearguard battles, the purpose of which was to wear down the enemy and inflict significant losses on him.

Alexander 1 gave the order that his troops avoid disunity and do not allow the enemy to break themselves into separate parts. Ultimately, thanks to well-planned tactics, they managed to achieve this. Thus, Napoleon's first plan remained unrealized.

On August 8, he was appointed Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Army. He also continued his general retreat tactics.

And although the Russians retreated back purposefully, they, like the rest of the people, were waiting for the main battle, which sooner or later was bound to take place anyway.

Soon this battle will take place near the village of Borodino, located not far from.

Battles of the Patriotic War of 1812

At the height of the Patriotic War of 1812, Kutuzov chose defensive tactics. Bagration commanded the troops on the left flank, Raevsky’s artillery was located in the center, and Barclay de Tolly’s army was on the right flank.

Napoleon preferred to attack rather than defend, since this tactic repeatedly helped him emerge victorious from military campaigns.

He understood that sooner or later the Russians would stop retreating and they would have to accept battle. At that point in time, the French emperor was confident of his victory and, I must say, there were good reasons for this.

Before 1812, he had already managed to show the whole world the power of the French army, which was able to conquer more than one European country. The talent of Napoleon himself, as an outstanding commander, was recognized by everyone.

Battle of Borodino

The Battle of Borodino, which was sung in the poem “Borodino,” took place on August 26 (September 7), 1812 near the village of Borodino, 125 km west of Moscow.

Napoleon entered from the left and carried out several attacks on the enemy, entering into open battle with the Russian army. At that moment, both sides began to actively use artillery, suffering serious losses.

Ultimately, the Russians retreated in an orderly manner, but this did not give Napoleon anything.

Then the French began to attack the center of the Russian troops. In this regard, Kutuzov ordered the Cossacks to go around the enemy from the rear and strike at him.

Although the plan did not bring any benefit to the Russians, it forced Napoleon to stop the attack for several hours. Thanks to this, Kutuzov managed to pull additional forces to the center.

Ultimately, Napoleon still managed to take the Russian fortifications, however, as before, this did not bring him any significant benefit. Due to constant attacks, he lost many soldiers, so the fighting soon began to subside.

Both sides lost large numbers of men and guns. However, the Battle of Borodino raised the morale of the Russians, who realized that they could fight Napoleon's great army quite successfully. The French, on the contrary, were demoralized, dejected by the failure and were completely at a loss.

From Moscow to Maloyaroslavets

The Patriotic War of 1812 continued. After the Battle of Borodino, the army of Alexander 1 continued its retreat, getting closer and closer to Moscow.

The French followed, but no longer sought to engage in open battle. On September 1, at the military council of Russian generals, Mikhail Kutuzov made a sensational decision, with which many did not agree.

He insisted that Moscow be abandoned and all property in it destroyed. As a result, this is exactly what happened.

The French army, exhausted physically and mentally, needed replenishment of food supplies and rest. However, bitter disappointment awaited them.

Once in Moscow, Napoleon did not see a single inhabitant or even an animal. Leaving Moscow, the Russians set fire to all the buildings so that the enemy could not take advantage of anything. This was an unprecedented incident in history.

When the French realized the deplorability of their stupid situation, they were completely demoralized and defeated. Many soldiers stopped obeying their commanders and turned into gangs of robbers running around the outskirts of the city.

Russian troops, on the contrary, were able to break away from Napoleon and enter the Kaluga and Tula provinces. They had food supplies and ammunition hidden there. In addition, the soldiers could take a break from a difficult campaign and join the ranks of the army.

The best solution to this absurd situation for Napoleon was the conclusion of peace with Russia, but all his proposals for a truce were rejected by Alexander 1 and Kutuzov.

A month later, the French began to leave Moscow in disgrace. Bonaparte was furious at this outcome of events and did everything possible to engage the Russians in battle.

Having reached Kaluga on October 12, near the city of Maloyaroslavets, a major battle took place, in which both sides lost many people and military equipment. However, the final victory did not go to anyone.

Victory in the Patriotic War of 1812

The further retreat of Napoleon's army looked more like a chaotic flight than an organized exit from Russia. After the French began to loot, local residents began to unite into partisan detachments and engage in battles with the enemy.

At this time, Kutuzov carefully pursued Bonaparte’s army, avoiding open clashes with it. He wisely took care of his warriors, fully aware that the enemy’s forces were melting before his eyes.

The French suffered serious losses in the battle of the city of Krasny. Tens of thousands of invaders died in this battle. The Patriotic War of 1812 was coming to an end.

When Napoleon tried to save the remnants of the army and transport them across the Berezina River, he once again suffered a heavy defeat from the Russians. It should be understood that the French were not prepared for the unusually severe frosts that struck at the very beginning of winter.

Obviously, before the attack on Russia, Napoleon did not plan to stay in it for so long, as a result of which he did not take care of warm uniforms for his troops.

As a result of an inglorious retreat, Napoleon abandoned the soldiers to their fate and secretly fled to France.

On December 25, 1812, Alexander 1 issued a manifesto, which spoke of the end of the Patriotic War.

Reasons for Napoleon's defeat

Among the reasons for Napoleon's defeat in his Russian campaign, the most often cited are:

• popular participation in the war and mass heroism of Russian soldiers and officers;
• the length of Russia's territory and harsh climatic conditions;
• the leadership talent of the commander-in-chief of the Russian army, Kutuzov, and other generals.

The main reason for Napoleon's defeat was the nationwide rise of Russians to defend the Fatherland. In the unity of the Russian army with the people we must look for the source of its power in 1812.

Results of the Patriotic War of 1812

The Patriotic War of 1812 is one of the significant events in the history of Russia. Russian troops managed to stop the invincible army of Napoleon Bonaparte and showed unprecedented heroism.

The war caused serious damage to the economy of the Russian Empire, which was estimated at hundreds of millions of rubles. More than 200 thousand people died on the battlefields.

Many settlements were completely or partially destroyed, and their restoration required not only large sums of money, but also human resources.

However, despite this, victory in the Patriotic War of 1812 strengthened the morale of the entire Russian people. After it, many European countries began to respect the army of the Russian Empire.

The main result of the Patriotic War of 1812 was the almost complete destruction of Napoleon's Grand Army.

If you liked a brief history of the Patriotic War of 1812, - share it on social networks and subscribe to the site. It's always interesting with us!

Did you like the post? Press any button:

The main battles of the War of 1812 Completed by Student 8 "B" class Maou school No. 37 Siukhova Yulia 2012

Mikhail Illarionovich Golenishchev-Kutuzov (His Serene Highness Prince Golenishchev-Kutuzov-Smolensky, famous Russian commander, Field Marshal General, His Serene Highness Prince (since 1812). Hero of the Patriotic War of 1812, first full holder of the Order of St. George

Alexander Pavlovich Romanov was born on December 23 (12), 1777 in St. Petersburg. He was given a name in honor of St. Alexander Nevsky. Emperor Alexander I (1801-1825)

Napoleon Bonaparte Emperor of France in 1804-1815, the great French commander and statesman who laid the foundations of the modern French state.

Causes of the war Economic: Napoleon I demanded that Alexander I tighten the continental blockade of England and thereby subordinate Russia to the interests of the French bourgeoisie. To do this, Russia had to change the customs tariff of 1810, which was unfavorable for French imports, and abandon trade with the British. Political: to separate part of the territory from Russia, creating an independent Poland, while the Duchy of Warsaw did not hide that they hoped to eventually expand to the borders of the former Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.

June 12, 1812. Beginning of the Patriotic War Invasion of the Great French Army into Russia across the Neman River Retreat of the Russian Army

August 2 Battle of Krasny, Union of the first and second Russian armies in Smolensk After the connection on August 3 near Smolensk of the 2nd Russian army of Bagration with the main 1st army of Commander-in-Chief Barclay de Tolly, there was a lull. Bagration voluntarily submitted in the interests of the cause to the commander of a larger army, Barclay de Tolly. Defensive battle of the united Russian army on August 16 - 17 with Napoleon's army for Smolensk.

On August 26, the Battle of Borodino is the largest battle of the Patriotic War of 1812 between the Russian and French armies. It took place on August 26 (September 7), 1812 near the village of Borodino, 125 km west of Moscow.

During the 12-hour battle, the French army managed to capture the positions of the Russian army in the center and on the left wing, but after the cessation of hostilities, the French army retreated to its original positions. The next day, the command of the Russian army began to withdraw troops. Napoleon said: “The Battle of Borodino was the most beautiful and most formidable, the French showed themselves worthy of victory, and the Russians deserved to be invincible.” The French army occupied Moscow, but did not defeat the Russian army. The Russian army left Moscow, but retained most of the troops

The Battle of Tarutino is a battle on October 18, 1812 near the village of Tarutino, Kaluga region, that took place between Russian troops under the command of Field Marshal Kutuzov and French troops. The victory at Tarutino was the first victory of Russian troops in the Patriotic War of 1812 after the Battle of Borodino. The success strengthened the spirit of the Russian army, which launched a counteroffensive.

The Battle of Maloyaroslavets is a battle between Russian and French troops on October 24 (October 12, old style) in Maloyaroslavets during the Patriotic War of 1812. tactical victory of the French, strategic victory of the Russian army

the battle of October 22 (November 3), 1812 near Vyazma of the Russian avant-garde under the command of Miloradovich with the retreating French army

Battle of Red - fighting near the village of Krasny (45 km southwest of Smolensk) between the Russian army under the command of M.I. Kutuzov and Napoleon’s “Great Army” retreating from Russia. During four days of active hostilities, the French suffered heavy losses. However, Napoleon still managed to avoid complete defeat at Krasnoye

Battle of the Berezina - battles on November 26-29 between the French corps and the Russian armies of Chichagov and Wittgenstein on both banks of the Berezina River during Napoleon's crossing

December 25 Manifesto of Alexander I on the end of the war December 3 – Crossing of the remnants of the French army across the Neman December 14 – Crossing of Russian troops across the Neman

Thank you for your attention

A reference table on the history of the Patriotic War of 1812, it contains the main dates and most important events of the Patriotic War of 1812 against France and Napoleon. The table will be useful for schoolchildren and students in preparing for tests, exams and the Unified State Examination in history.

Causes of the Patriotic War of 1812

1) Russia’s actual refusal to participate in the continental blockade due to damage to foreign trade

2) Napoleon’s unsuccessful attempt to woo the sister of the Russian emperor

3) Napoleon’s support for the Poles’ desire to revive their state, which did not suit Russia.

4) Napoleon's desire for world domination. The only obstacle to the implementation of this plan remained Russia.

Plans of action of the parties and balance of forces

Main events and dates of the Patriotic War

battle of Borodino

Partisan movement and people's militia

Results of the Patriotic War of 1812:

1) Napoleon’s plans to establish world domination were thwarted

2) Awakening the national self-awareness of the Russian people and patriotic upsurge in the country

3) Liberation of European countries from French rule

_______________

A source of information: History in tables and diagrams./ Edition 2e, St. Petersburg: 2013.