The retreat of Napoleon’s army from Russia in 1812.
Historical background
Napoleon invaded Russia in June 1812. His army occupied Moscow in September, but the Russian government refused to make peace. As supplies ran short, Napoleon ordered a retreat.
Cold, hunger, disease, exhaustion and attacks all took a toll. The crossing of the Berezina became one of the best-known episodes of a retreat that wrecked much of the invading army.
