Moscow 1812: Napoleon's Fatal March

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Moscow 1812: Napoleon's Fatal March

Book cover
Author Adam Zamoyski
Country United States
Language English
Subject(s) French invasion of Russia
Genre(s) War, History
Publisher HarperCollins
Publication date August 03, 2004
Media type Novel
Pages 672
ISBN ISBN 0061075582

Moscow 1812: Napoleon's Fatal March is a non-fiction book analysing the events and circumstances during the French Invasion of Russia and the events during the reign of Napoleon, which would, ultimately, mark the ending of the Napoleonic empire after his troops were defeated after attempting to access Moscow. The book was written by Adam Zamoyski and first published on August 3, 2004 by HarperCollins;[1] receiving positive reviews by critics and the media.

[edit] Plot

An artists depiction of Napoleon's retreat from Moscow
An artists depiction of Napoleon's retreat from Moscow

Napoleon I of France was, at the time, a prominent military and political figure, desiring to take over several countries of Europe, beginning in 1811. His intentions of taking over several European countries had been somewhat successful, however, he failed when attempting to invade Britain and destroy it via a constant blockade.[2] In an attempt to make his plans succeed, Napoleon sought the help of Tsar Alexander, but when the latter refused to assist him, Napoleon vowed to exact revenge on Alexander for this, this marking the beginning of the battle. During the winter of 1812, the French invaded Russia on Napoleon's orders, making their way east towards Moscow. Unable to return to the other side of Russia and knowing it was unlikely they could win the battle, the troops reluctantly followed on, only to be met by Russians at the gates to the city. The ensuing battle between the two sides was the beginning of the end of the Napoleonic empire. Napoleon's men were defeated at a later time, thus marking a turning point in world affairs and events around the world.[1]

[edit] Reception

The Washington Post reviewer Anne Applebaum commented: "Certain historical events become so covered in myth and significance, so overlaid with patriotism and emotion, that over time many people forget what really happened and why. Napoleon's fatal 1812 march on Moscow is one such event."[3] HarperCollins commented that "Moscow 1812 is a masterful work of history;" as well as being "dramatic, insightful, and enormously absorbing."[4] Michael Burleigh of The Sunday Times wrote "Adam Zamoyski's account of the 1812 campaign is so brilliant that it is impossible to put aside."[5]

[edit] References

  1. ^ a b Moscow 1812: Napoleon's Fatal March. Google Books. Retrieved on 2008-01-16.
  2. ^ Moscow 1812: Napoleon's Fatal March. Amazon.com. Retrieved on 2008-01-10.
  3. ^ Out in the Cold. Reviewed by Anne Applebaum. Washington Post. Retrieved on 2008-01-16.
  4. ^ From the Publisher. Barnes & Noble. Retrieved on 2008-01-17.
  5. ^ Burleigh, Michael. Back cover of Moscow 1812: Napoleon's Fatal March. Retrieved on 2008-01-17