Home > Europe > Russia > Rivers
Napoleonic / Russian Camp
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Napoleonic / Russian Camp
The retreating French attacked as they try to cross the Berezina river; after the thaw, 36, 000 bodies were recovered
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 575642
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10013191
1812 Attacked Bodies Campaign Napoleonic Recovered Retreat Retreating Thaw Wars Beresina Berezina
EDITORS COMMENTS
This evocative image captures the harsh realities of the Napoleonic Wars, specifically the disastrous Russian Campaign of 1812. The photograph depicts a Napoleonic camp during the retreat of the French army, as they attempt to cross the Berezina River. The thaw had set in, making the river ice unstable, and the Russian forces, taking advantage of the situation, launched a surprise attack on the retreating French. The campaign, which began in June 1812 with Napoleon's Grande Armée marching towards Moscow, ended in disaster for the French. The Russian army, under the command of Mikhail Kutuzov, employed scorched earth tactics, destroying supplies and infrastructure as the French advanced. The bitter winter and the relentless pursuit by the Russians took a heavy toll on the French army, and by November, the remaining troops were in a desperate state. As seen in the photograph, the soldiers huddle around fires, trying to keep warm in the freezing conditions. The tents and equipment are in disarray, and the exhausted soldiers look on as their comrades attempt to cross the Berezina River. The ice is treacherous, and many soldiers lost their lives as they tried to cross, with estimates suggesting that up to 36,000 French soldiers drowned or froze to death in the river during the retreat. The aftermath of the Battle of the Berezina was a scene of devastation. The bodies of the fallen soldiers were left to be recovered in the spring thaw, a grim reminder of the human cost of the war. This photograph is a poignant reminder of one of the most significant events in European history, and the sacrifices made by the soldiers on both sides of the conflict.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
