Napoleon’s Invasion of Russia Begins: The Grande Armée Crosses the Neman River
On June 24, 1812, the Napoleonic Wars entered one of their most dramatic phases as Napoleon Bonaparte led the massive Grande Armée across the Neman River, beginning the invasion of Russia.
With more than 400,000 soldiers from across Europe, Napoleon aimed to force Russia back into compliance with his Continental System and defeat Tsar Alexander I of Russia. The campaign began with confidence, but Russia’s strategy of retreating, avoiding a decisive battle, and destroying supplies left the French army vulnerable.
The invasion would become one of the greatest military disasters in history. The harsh Russian winter, disease, hunger, and fierce resistance devastated Napoleon’s forces. By the end of the campaign, the once-mighty Grande Armée had been nearly destroyed, marking a turning point in Napoleon’s reign and the beginning of his decline.