Английская Википедия:Battle of Krasnoi

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Шаблон:Short description

Шаблон:Use dmy dates Шаблон:Infobox military conflict

Шаблон:Campaignbox French invasion of Russia

The Battle of Krasnoi (at Krasny or Krasnoe) unfolded from 15 to 18 November 1812 marking a critical episode in Napoleon's arduous retreat from Moscow.[1] Over the course of six skirmishes the Russian forces under field marshal Kutuzov inflicted significant blows upon the remnants of the Шаблон:Lang, already severely weakened by attrition warfare.[2][3] These confrontations, though not escalated into full-scale battles, led to substantial losses for the French due to their depleted weapons and horses.[4]

Throughout the four days of combat, Napoleon attempted to rush his troops, stretched out in a Шаблон:Convert march, past the parallel-positioned Russian forces along the high road. Despite the Russian army's superiority in horse and manpower, Kutuzov hesitated to launch a full offensive, according to Mikhail Pokrovsky fearing the risks associated with facing Napoleon head-on.[5][6] Instead, he hoped that hunger, cold and decay in discipline would ultimately wear down the French forces.[7][8]Шаблон:Efn This strategy, however, led him in a nearly perpendicular course, placing him amidst of the separated French corps.[9]

On 17 November a pivotal moment occurred when the French Imperial Guard executed an aggressive feint. This maneuver prompted Kutuzov to delay what could have been a decisive final assault,[1] leading him to seek support from both his left and right flanks. This strategic decision allowed Napoleon to successfully withdraw Davout and his corps but it also led to his immediate retreat before the Russians could capture Krasny or block his escape route.[10] Kutusow opted not to commit his entire force against his adversary but instead chose to pursue the French relentlessly, employing both large and small detachments to continually harass and weaken the French army.[11]

The decision to divide into columns proved catastrophic, resulting in heavy defeats for the corps of Eugene, Davout and Ney throughout the four days of relentless combat.[12] The Russians captured a significant number of prisoners, including several generals and 300 officers,[13][14]Шаблон:Efn while the Шаблон:Lang was forced to abandon most of its remaining artillery and baggage train.[12][15]

Overall, the Battle of Krasnoi inflicted devastating losses upon the French forces, amplifying their already continuous losses during their perilous retreat. Despite the valiant efforts of the Imperial Guard, the confrontation left the French military in dire straits and without supply and food, further weakening their already battered army.[3][2]

The forces converge on Krasny

Napoleon retreats from Smolensk

Файл:Napoleon's Retreat from Moscow 18 October through 5 December 1812.png
Movements of the French and Russian armies during Napoleon's retreat from Moscow, 18 October through 5 December 1812.
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The walls of the Smolensk Kremlin
Файл:Night Bivouac of Great Army.jpg
The Шаблон:Lang was devastated by the elements, a blizzard before it reached Krasnoi. Painting by Vasily Vereshchagin

Consisting of 100,000 combat-ready yet undersupplied troops, the Grande Armée, departed Moscow on 18 October, aiming to secure winter quarters via an alternative route to Kaluga. Following the loss at the Battle of Maloyaroslavets Kutuzov compelled Napoleon to shift northward, retracing the same ravaged path he had hoped to avoid. Smolensk, situated approximately Шаблон:Convert to the west, was the nearest French supply depot. Despite fair weather, the three-week march to Smolensk, moving approximately Шаблон:Convert a day, proved disastrous, subjecting the Шаблон:Lang to challenges like traversing a sparsely populated area with continuous forest, abandoned villages, grappling with demoralization, disciplinary breakdowns, hunger, extensive loss of horses and crucial supplies, as well as persistent harassment from Cossacks and partisans who made it impossible to forage.[16] While sources are not definitive, it's estimated that he arrived with 37,000 infantry, and 12,000 cavalry and artillery.[17] The situation worsened with the advent of an early and harsh "Russian Winter",Шаблон:Efn commencing on 5/7 November.[18][19][20]

By 8/9 November, when the French reached Smolensk, the strategic situation in Russia had turned decisively against Napoleon.[21] Merely 40% (37,000) of the remaining Шаблон:Lang was still combat-ready.[22] Concurrent losses on other fronts further exacerbated their dire circumstances. Encircled by encroaching Russian armies that imperiled their retreat, Napoleon recognized the untenability of his position at Smolensk.Шаблон:Efn On 11 November, he ordered Berthier that the new troops should not come to Smolensk but return to Krasny or Orsha. Consequently, the new strategic goal became leading the Шаблон:Lang westward into winter quarters, targeting the area of the extensive French supply depot of Minsk.[23]Шаблон:Efn

Having lost contact with Kutuzov over the past two weeks, Napoleon mistakenly assumed that the Russian army had suffered equally due to harsh conditions and was a couple of days behind.[24][25] Underestimating the potential for a Kutuzov-led offensive, Napoleon made the tactical blunder of resuming his retreat. He dispatched the individual corps of the Шаблон:Lang from Smolensk on four successive days, starting on Friday 13 November with the Polish Corps under Zajączek, who replaced the wounded Poniatowski. Next came the Westphalians. Napoleon left on the 14th, preceded by Mortier with the Legion of the Vistula and Claparède who departed with the captures treasures and baggage wagons;[26][27] Beauharnais left on the next day, Davout on the 16th, and Ney at 2 a.m. on the 17th. This resulted in a fragmented column of disconnected corps, spanning Шаблон:Convert, ill-prepared for a significant battle.[28] As the soldiers, including the sick, blind and wounded, improvised unconventional methods to withstand the cold, the scene resembled a disordered carnival procession. (Napoleon complained to the Duke of Feltre about the quality of the 180 grain-mills which were sent and distributed.)

A blizzard struck on 14 November, bringing heavy snowfall of approximately Шаблон:Convert and a temperature plummet to -21 °R (= -25°C or -14°F).Шаблон:Efn This led to further casualties among men, horses, and the abandonment of artillery.[29] Ostermann-Tolstoy, part of Miloradovich's avant-guard, shelled Napoleon and his guards, but the assault was repelled.[30] While Miloradovich desired to attack, he was not granted permission by Kutuzov. Meanwhile, Claparède and the Vistula-legion arrived at Krasny since August occupied by a small French battalion. They were expelled by Ozharovsky's flying column.[31]

In the afternoon of 15 November, Napoleon himself arrived at Krasny accompanied by his 12,000-strong Imperial Guard.[32] His plan was to await the arrival of the troops of Eugène, Davout and Ney over the next several days before recommencing the retreat.Шаблон:Efn In the intervening space between and around these French corps, nearly 40,000 disintegrated troops formed mobs of unarmed, disorganized stragglers.

Kutuzov's southern march

Файл:Mierlina. Мерліна (Lauvergne, 1840).jpg
View on Merlino in February 1840, lithograph by Barthélemy Lauvergne
Файл:Krasny. Красны (Lauvergne, 1840) (2).jpg
View on Krasnoi (Lauvergne, 1840)

During the same period, the main Russian army under Kutuzov followed the French on a parallel southern road.[33] This route passed through Medyn and Yelnya,[34] the latter became a significant center for the partisan movement. Unlike the Шаблон:Lang, the main Russian army approached Krasny in a much less weakened state,[35] but still had to contend with the same, extreme weather conditions and scarcity of food. Kutuzov promoted an easy retreat for the French army and initially forbade his generals to cut off their retreat.[36] General Bennigsen, who disagreed, was sent back to Kaluga on the 15th?

Due to outdated intelligence reports, Kutuzov somehow believed that only one-third of the French army had passed from Smolensk to Krasny with the remainder of Napoleon's forces marching much farther to the north or still at Smolensk.[37]Шаблон:Efn On this basis, Kutuzov accepted a plan proposed by his staff officer, Colonel Toll, to march on Krasny to destroy what was believed to be an isolated Napoleon.[38]

The Russian position at Krasny began forming on 15 November, when the 3,500-strong flying advance guard of Adam Ozharovsky took possession of the town, located in the Pale of Settlement, and destroyed magazines and stock before the French arrived.[38][39] On the same day, the 18,000 troops of Miloradovich established a strong position, across the high road about Шаблон:Convert before Krasny. This movement effectively separated Eugene, Davoust, and Ney from the Emperor.[40][41] On 16 November Kutuzov's 35,000-strong main force slowly approached from the south,[42] and halted 5 km from the main road to Krasny. Another 20,000 Cossack irregulars, operating mostly in small bands, supplemented the main army by harassing the French at all points along the long road to Krasny. In the first skirmishes at Krasny, the French still showed stubborn resistance and desperate courage.

Шаблон:Blockquote

Файл:Portrait of Count Pavel Stroganoff (1772-1817).jpg
Count Pavel Stroganov was born in Paris, considered French as his native language, witnessed the French Revolution and even visited the Jacobin Club with his teacher Gilbert Romme. Painting by Jean-Laurent Mosnier (1808)

In total, Kutuzov commanded a force of 50,000 to 60,000 regular troops, which included a substantial cavalry unit and around 50/200 cannon, some transported on sledges.[43][32] Kutuzov's forces were organized into two columns. The larger contingent, under the leadership of General Tormasov, formed the left flank and maneuvered around Krasny so Napoleon could not withdraw.[44] Meanwhile, the second column, led by Golitsyn and his brother-in-law Stroganov, held the army's center and launched an attack on Krasny. Miloradovich's position anchored the Russian right flank, controlling a vital road to Krasny. This road required the French army to cross a stream within a gully. Despite Miloradovich's pivotal role, he left his strategic position to aid Golitsyn against the Young Guard.[45][46] Consequently, Davout managed to successfully cross the Losvinka brook, albeit at the cost of his rearguard's sacrifice.Шаблон:Efn

15 November: the rout of Ozharovsky

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Vasily Orlov-Denisov by G. Dawe
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Adam Petrovich Ozharovsky by G. Dawe
Файл:Jean Rapp 2.jpg
Jean Rapp by Henri-François Riesener

Outside Smolensk, leaving the floodplain of the Dniepr, there is a steep slope passing into a long descent, slightly undulating until Krasny. The rear of the Imperial Guard was harassed by the Cossacks of Orlov-Denisov, who captured 1,300 soldiers, 400 carts and 1,000 horses. Near Merlino, around noon, the Imperial Guard, marched past Miloradovich's troops, who were positioned left of the road, backed by a forest.[40] Impressed by the order and composure of the elite guardsmen, Miloradovich had orders from Kutuzov not to attack the flanks, and settled instead for bombarding the French at extreme range.[47] The Russian cannon fire inflicted little damage on the large corps of Guards which continued moving toward Krasny.[47]

As Napoleon and the Imperial Old Guard approached, it was fired upon by Ozharovsky and Russian infantry and artillery. A surprised army did not expect that they had been overtaken and could be attacked from the front. The eyewitness description of this encounter by the partisan leader Davidov, which eloquently portrays the comportment of the Old Guard, forming a "fortress-like square",[48] has become one of the most often quoted in the histories of the 1812 war:

Шаблон:Blockquote

Before dusk, Napoleon entered Krasny. He planned to remain so that Eugene, Davout and Ney could catch up with him. However, part of this small town was set on fire after the Old Guard took shelter in the monastery, barns and houses.[49] The streets were filled with soldiers and there was not much to eat or drink. As there was not enough room the Young Guard camped east, outside the town without any shelter against the cold. To keep his men busy Napoleon decided in the late evening to force the withdrawal of Ozharovsky's Cossacks from the Losvinka.[50]

Файл:François Roguet.jpg
François Roguet routed Ozharovsky's troops in the first skirmish of the Battle of Krasnoi

Recognizing that Ozharovsky's position was dangerously isolated from Kutuzov's main army, Napoleon dispatched the Young Guard under General Claparède on a surprise attack against the Russian encampment, which was not protected by pickets. The operation against their center was first entrusted to General Rapp,[51] but at the last moment, he was replaced with General Roguet; the Guardsmen were divided into three columns. Shortly after midnight, it was two o'clock when the movement began on Ozharovsky's force. They began a silent advance although the snow was up to their knees. (The Old Guard stayed behind and did not fight.) The Young Guard (under Delaborde) launched a counterattack and drove Ozharovski's detachment back from the brook. In the ensuing combat, the Russians were taken by surprise during their sleep and, despite their fierce resistance, were routed. As many as half of Ozharovsky's troops were killed with bayonets or captured, and the remainder threw their weapons in a pond and fled. Lacking cavalry, Roguet was unable to pursue Ozharovsky's remaining troops.[52] On the same evening Alexander Seslavin captured Lyady he destroyed two warehouses and took many prisoners, according to Davidov. According to sergeant Bourgogne:

Шаблон:Blockquote

Golitzin therefore decided to await Miloradovich's co-operation before pressing his advance.[53]

16 November: the defeat of Eugène

Miloradovich attacks

Файл:Eugène de Beauharnais in small uniform of colonel of the chasseurs à cheval of the consular guard (by François Gérard) – Hôtel de Beauharnais, Paris.jpg
Eugène de Beauharnais in small uniform of colonel of the chasseurs à cheval of the consular guard (by François Gérard) – Hôtel de Beauharnais, Paris
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Portrait of Fyodor P. Uvarov

Jean-François Boulart described the situation when he arrived at the Losvinka on the previous evening:

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In the afternoon of 16 November, the Italian corps of Viceroy Beauharnais arrived at gully. Near Krasny Mikhail Miloradovich put up a barrier next to and across the road,[54] by a detachment of infantry, light cavalry and half of the Russian artillery.[55][56] On a beautiful plateau according to Roguet.

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On this day, the situation took a turn for the worse for the French. The whole day was spent in waiting for the three corps that had left Smolensk when Kutuzov's forces closed in on the main road. Fyodor Petrovich Uvarov succeeded to cut off Eugène de Beauharnais and his IV corps from the rest of the army but refrained from launching an attack on the rear with his cavalry. In contrast, Miloradovich's troops dealt a severe blow to Prince Eugène who refused to surrender.[57][58] In this skirmish, his Italian Corps lost one-third of its original strength, along with its baggage train and artillery at the Losvinka.Шаблон:Efn Reduced to only 3,500 combatants, without any cannons or supplies,[44] Eugène was left with no choice but to wait until nightfall and then find an alternate route around the Russian forces.[59] Eugène fooled the Russian general by attacking his army on the left flank but managed to escape with part of his soldiers to the right.[57] This escape was partly due to Kutuzov's decision to prevent the skirmish from escalating into a full-scale battle, much to the surprise of both Russian and French forces.[60][61]

Kutuzov at Zhuli

Файл:Dmitriy Vladimirovich Golitsyn.jpg
Dmitriy Vladimirovich Golitsyn studied military science in Paris at the École Militaire, just like Napoleon. Dmitry was involved in the Storming of the Bastille.[62] He died in Paris. Portrait by George Dawe (1825)

Earlier that day, Kutuzov's main army finally arrived within Шаблон:Convert of Krasny, taking up positions around the hamlets of Novoselye and Zhuli. Despite being in a favorable position to attack the French, Kutuzov hesitated. He opted for a day of rest for his troops, delaying any decisive action.

In the evening, Kutuzov faced pressure from the disagreeing junior generals, especially Wilson, urging him to launch a decisive attack against Napoleon. The Russians were able to surround Napoleon and overwhelm him by their sheer superior numbers.[63] However, he remained cautious and only planned for an offensive. He forbade his commanders from executing it until daylight. The Russian battle plan involved a three-pronged attack on Krasny: Miloradovich was to hold his strategic position on the hill, blocking the advance of Davout and Ney. The main army would split into two groups: Golitsyn would lead 15,000 troops and halt on the right bank of the Losvinka, in full sight of Krasny,[64] while Tormasov commanded 20,000 troops tasked with encircling Krasny and cutting off the French retreat route to Orsha.[65] Ozharovsky's flying column, weakened after their defeat by the Young Guard, would operate independently west of Krasny. The remnants of Eugène's Westphalian Corps were incapable of taking any part in the action, when they arrived late in the evening. Napoleon ordered it to defile on the road to Orsha as Krasny was full with soldiers.

However, at some point, Kutuzov received information from prisoners (quartermaster Puybusque and his son) that Napoleon intended to remain in Krasny and wait for Ney and not withdraw as Kutuzov had anticipated upon the arrival of Davout. This revelation caused Kutuzov to reconsider the planned offensive after Ozharovsky's defeat, as reported by Nafziger and Gourgaud.[66][67]

17 November: Napoleon's bold maneuver

Peril for Davout

Файл:Miloradovich.jpg
General Miloradovich's troops inflicted massive losses on the corps of Eugene, Davout and Ney at Krasnoi.

The day began at 3:00 a.m. when Davout's I Corps set out towards Krasny upon receiving troubling reports of Eugene's defeat the previous day. Originally, Davout had intended to wait for Ney's III Corps, which was still at Smolensk, to catch up.[68] However, sensing a relatively clear path, he approached the Losvinka brook around nine in the morning.

Unfortunately for Davout, Miloradovich, with Kutuzov's permission, initiated a sudden and intense artillery barrage on Davout's corps. This unexpected attack instilled panic among the French troops, resulting to a hasty retreat from the road and leaving the rear guard (Dutch 33rd Regiment) on the verge of annihilation. Davout's corps suffered severe casualties, with only 4,000 men remaining.[69]

An intriguing, though poorly documented incident occurred near the Losvinka when the rear end of the I Corps baggage train, including Davout's jammed carriages, fell into the hands of the Cossacks.[70] Among the items seized by the Russians were Davout's war chest, numerous maps depicting the Middle East, Central Asia, and India, his Marshal baton and an item of significance in the peace negotiations with Tsar Alexander,[71] Some sources even mention a substantial sum of (forged) money as part of the haul.[72][73] The exact location of this incident, whether it occurred east of Krasny in the morning or west of Krasny in the afternoon, remains unclear.

Napoleon Bold move: Ordering the Guard's Advance

Файл:Napoleons retreat from moscow.jpg
Napoleon's retreat by Adolph Northen
Файл:Vorša. Ворша (Lauvergne, 1840).jpg
Orsha at the Dniepr (Lauvergne, 1840)

Шаблон:Blockquote

Napoleon, fully aware of the grave danger confronting the Grande Armée, faced a critical decision. Waiting for Ney in Krasny was no longer a viable option; any determined attack by Kutuzov could spell disaster for the entire army. Furthermore, the starving French troops urgently needed to reach their closest supply source, Шаблон:Convert west at Orsha, before the Russians could capture the town.[74]

In this critical moment, Napoleon's "sense of initiative" resurfaced, marking the first time in weeks. As Caulaincourt's described it: "This turn of events, which upset all the Emperor's calculations... would have overwhelmed any other general. But the Emperor was stronger than adversity, and became the more stubborn as danger seemed more imminent."[74]

Before daylight broke, Napoleon prepared his Imperial Guard for an bold feint against Golitsyn, hoping that this unexpected maneuver would dissuade the Russians from launching an assault on Davout. The Guardsmen were organized into attack columns, and the remaining artillery of the Grande Armée was readied for combat.[75] Napoleon's strategy aimed to delay the Russians long enough to gather the forces of Davout and Ney, allowing the retreat to resume before Kutuzov could launch an attack or attempt to outflank him on the route to Orsha.[75]

The Imperial Guard demonstrates its strength

Файл:KrasnoiBattle.gif
A plan of the Battle of Krasnoi from the Atlas to Alison's History of Europe (1855)[76]
Файл:Memorial to the battle of Krasnoi (November 1812).jpg
A seldom-seen photograph from 1916 which captures the memorial near Krasny, illustrating the Smolensk road.

At 2:00 a.m., four regiments of the Imperial Guards departed from Krasny to secure the terrain immediately to the east and southeast of the town.[77][78]Шаблон:Efn This marked a significant moment as Napoleon deployed the Old Guard, consisting of 5,000 exceptionally tall and well-trained men, to confront the Cossacks who had blocked the road near the Losvinka. Napoleon himself chose the role of a general leading the Young Guards, relinquishing his position as the supreme commander of the army.Шаблон:Quote

The Guardsmen found themselves facing Russian infantry columns, bolstered by imposing artillery batteries commanded by Golitsyn and Stroganov. As Ségur poetically put it: "Russian battalions and batteries barred the horizon on all three sides—in front, on our right, and behind us"[48]

Kutuzov, lacking comprehensive information, reacted hesitantly to Napoleon's presence and audacious maneuver with the Imperial Guard. He ordered Milodarovich to assist, delayed Tormasov for three hours and eventually abandoned the planned offensive, despite the Russians' clear numerical advantage.Шаблон:Efn

Napoleon did not retreat, but decided to attack with the Young Guards in order to force Kutuzov to draw Miloradovich to him.[79] At some time Milodarovich moved south to reinforce Golitsyn against the Young Guards.[80][45] When Miloradovich left his commanding position on the hill to join the battle, he left behind a small detachment of Cossacks.[81] This allowed Davout to successfully fight his way through and enter Krasny.[27][82] The Guard's audacious feint rescued Davout's corps from potential annihilation. [83]

Action at the Losvinka brook

Файл:Desarnot-Cossacks pursue retreating Frenchmen.jpg
During the Battle of Krasnoi, the relentless pursuit of Cossacks targeted the retreating French forces. This chaotic scene was vividly captured by Auguste-Joseph Desarnod, who happened to be the soldier thrown from his horse in the painting.
Файл:The Last Fight of the Dutch 3rd Regiment Grenadiers of the Guard.jpg
Another depiction of this pivotal moment can be found in Jan Hoynck van Papendrecht's painting The Last Fight of the Dutch 3rd Regiment Grenadiers of the Guard set against an exceedingly cold morning.[84]
Файл:Battle of Krasnoi 1812.PNG
At nine in the morning, Davout's rear guard, the 33rd regiment formed a defensive square at the Losvinka.[85] Painting by Jean-Antoine-Siméon Fort

At nine in the morning, Davout's rear guard, the 33rd regiment, formed a defensive square at the Losvinka. It was on this particular day that limited close-quarters combat unfolded during the morning and early afternoon. The Young Guard initiated an attack to provide cover for Davout's crossing of the Losvinka further north.[86]

Uvarovo, located just a half-hour's walk from Krasny, was initially held by two battalions of Golitsyn's infantry, serving as a fragile forward outpost ahead of the main Russian army. However, the Russians were eventually forced to withdraw from Uvarovo. Stroganov responded with a devastating artillery barrage that inflicted heavy casualties on the Young Guardsmen.[87]

Kutuzov ordered Miloradovich to reposition his forces, linking up with Golitsyn's lines and concentrating their strength behind Golitsyn's position.[87] This maneuver prevented Miloradovich from completing the destruction of Davout's troops.[88]

As Davout's troops continued their westward movement, they were relentlessly harassed by Cossacks, and Russian artillery under Stroganov pounded Davout's corps with grapeshot, causing devastating casualties. Although Davout's personal baggage train suffered significant losses, a considerable number of his infantrymen managed to rally in Krasny.[89] Once Davout and Mortier established communication, Napoleon initiated his retreat upon Lyady with the Old Guard. However, the Dutch 3rd Regiment Grenadiers and Red Lancers were left to support Mortier and engage the Russians.[90]Шаблон:Efn

The rearguard of Davout's corps, consisting of the chasseurs from the Dutch 33rd Regiment, faced relentles attacks from Cossacks, cuirassiers, and infantry, becoming encircled and running low on ammunition. The regiment formed defensive squares and successfully repelled the initial attacks.[58] However, during the third Russian assault, they became trapped leading to the demise of the entire regiment, with only 75 men surviving.[91][92] This loss marked the end of the battle of Krasnoi as noted by Clausewitz and Georges de Chambray.[93][94]

Around 11:00 a.m., Napoleon received alarming intelligence reports indicating that Tormasov's troops were preparing to march west of Krasny.Шаблон:Efn This, forced Napoleon to reconsider his initial plan of keeping Kutuzov occupied until Ney's III Corps could reach Krasny. The risk of being encircled and defeated by Kutuzov's forces was too great. Napoleon made a crucial decision to order the Old Guard to fall back on Krasny and follow him in a westward march towards Lyady. Meanwhile, the exhausted Young Guard would hold their ground at the Losvinka. Napoleon's choice was not an easy one, as described in the words of Segur:

Шаблон:Blockquote

Файл:YoungGuardTirailleur.jpg
A tirailleur or sniper, a member of the Young Guard (Napoleon)

The Young Guard's ability to withstand the Russian onslaught was rapidly deteriorating, and Mortier wisely ordered a retreat before the remaining troops were surrounded and annihilated.[66] With precision, the Guardsmen executed an about face and marched back to Krasny, enduring a final devastating barrage of Russian cannon fire as they retreated at 2:00 p.m.[95] The toll was staggering, with only 3,000 survivors remaining from the Young Guard's original 6,000 troops. Throughout most of the day, the Russians kept a safe distance from the Guard, beyond the range of French muskets and bayonets, opting to pound the Young Guard with cannon fire from a distance. This day, 17 November, might be remembered as the bloodiest in the Young Guard's history. The many wounded soldiers were left behind and perished in the snow.

The retreat of the Young Guard did not end upon their return to Krasny. Mortier and Davout, vigilant of the possibility of Kutuzov launching an attack, joined the hurried procession of troops, crowds, and wagons heading towards Lyady. Only a feeble rearguard, led by General Friederichs, remained to hold Krasny.

Napoleon's retreat

Файл:Памятник прошедшим войскам Наполеона Ляды.jpg
In the earlier stages of the campaign, on 14 August 1812, Ney and his troops crossed the former border into old Russia at Lyady, proceeding toward Smolensk. By 18 November, after the defeat, Napoleon spent a night in the village where they stumbled upon a barn with hens and ducks.[72]

Before noon, Napoleon, accompanied by the stalwart Old Guard, followed by the remnants of the I Corps, commenced their westward departure from Krasny.[96] The road leading to Lyady quickly became congested with soldiers and their cumbersome wagons. Alongside them, a multitude of civilians, fugitives, and stragglers preceded the retreating French troops.[97]

Just outside Krasny, Davout's forces fell into an ambush set by the small detachments of Ozharovsky and Rosen dealing a severe blow to his rearguard. According to Buturlin they allowed Napoleon to pass but Davout was cut off.[98] Chaos ensued, with exploding grapeshot, overturned wagons, carriages careening uncontrollably, and panicked mobs of fugitives. Nevertheless, the Red Lancers under Colbert and Latour-Maubourg managed to force the Russians aside.[99] A large corps of Spanish voltigeurs (Old Guard) was ordered to attack.[100] The Guard's strategic maneuver was intensified by Napoleon's personal presence, but it came at a cost as he burnt his chancery and archive.Шаблон:Efn

After marching for about an hour, he gathered the Old Guard and formed them into a square. Dismounting, because the road - as smooth as a mirror and covered with snow - was too slippery for the horses,[101] Napoleon addressed them: "Grenadiers of my Guard, you bear witness to the disarray of my army."[102] With his birch walking stick in hand, Napoleon placed himself at the forefront of his Old Guard. Although the temperature rose, it did not stop snowing.[103]

Kutuzov delays the pursuit

Файл:Krasny, Zarečča. Красны, Зарэчча (1901-18).jpg
View on Krasny from Dobraya (1901-1918).

Despite the Russian eagerness to pursue the retreating French and launch an assault on Krasny, Kutuzov exercised caution, resulting in several hours of delay.Шаблон:Efn

At 2:00 p.m., confident that the French were in full retreat and not preparing to resist, Kutuzov finally gave the green light to Tormasov to execute his westward enveloping movement. Because of the snow Tormasov was not able to move quickly. Trying to establish a defensive position across a wide valley and obstructing the bridge at Dobraya. However, by the time Tormasov reached his intended location, it was too late in the afternoon to encircle and crush Davout's corps.[104] According to Dutch officer Van Dedem, a part of the Grande Armee was granted free passage to Orsha,[105] leaving the entire army surprised by the Russians' unexpected complacency.[106][107]

Around 3:00 p.m., Golitsyn's troops launched a powerful assault on Krasny, and Friederichs' rearguard yielded to the intense pressure and withdrew from the town. By nightfall, Golitsyn's troops had seized control of the town and its environs. The enemy solidified its position at the hilltop and awaited for Ney,[108] whom Napoleon was reluctantly forced to abandon to its fate.[109] The Russian generals considered Ney as an easy prey.[110]

18 November: the decimation of Ney's III Corps

Файл:Bataille - Michel Ney, duc d'Elchingen, prince de La Moskowa, Maréchal de France (1769-1815).jpg
Michel Ney, duc d'Elchingen, prince de La Moskowa, Maréchal de France (1769-1815).Шаблон:Efn
Файл:Adolphe Yvon (1817-1893) - Marshall Ney at retreat in Russia.jpg
The legendary rear guard retreat of Marshal Ney at Losvinka, depicted by Adolphe Yvon.
Файл:Hess-1812losmina.jpg
The battle at Losvinka captured by Peter von Hess
Файл:Retreat of Napoleon Army from Moscow 1812.jpg
A significant aspect of the Krasnoi conflict centered on the Cossacks' capture of scattered French stragglers, vividly portrayed in a watercolor by John Augustus Atkinson
Файл:B. Willewalde-Crossing the Berezina in 1812.jpg
Bogdan Willewalde (1891) Flight of the French from Russia in 1812

Ney's III Corps was designated as the rearguard, initially slated to depart Smolensk by 17 November. However, Ney's attempt to destroy the rampart, guns and ammunition seemed to yield limited success due to the rainy weather.Шаблон:Efn He departed Smolensk with approximately 6 guns, 3,000 troops and a squadron of 300 horses, leaving behind as few French as possible.[111][112] Around 3:00 a.m. on 18 November, Ney's Corps set out from Korytnya,[113] aiming for Krasny where Miloradovich had positioned his troops atop a hill, overlooking the gully containing the Losvinka stream.[114] On this day, thawing conditions, thick fog, and light rain resulted in the dreaded rasputitsa, creating treacherous icy surfaces as the evening advanced. Unaware of the Шаблон:Lang's departure from Krasny, Ney remained oblivious to the impending danger near the gully. Around 3:00 p.m., Ney's advance guard appeared at the Losvinka and briefly managed to reach the top before being repelled to the other side of ravine.[115][116] In Ney's perspective, Davout still lingered behind Miloradovich's columns within Krasny, further influencing his decisions. Disregarding a Russian offer for an honorable surrender, Ney courageously aimed to force his way through the combined enemy forces. Although the determined French soldiers breached the initial Russian infantry lines, the third line proved impenetrable.[89] At a crucial juncture, Nikolay Raevsky launched a fierce counterattack. Ney's troops found themselves surrounded atop the hill, causing immense disorder and leading many to surrender.Шаблон:Efn The pivotal moment was narrated by the English General (in Russian service) Sir Robert Wilson:

Шаблон:Blockquote

Ney suffered more than half of his forces' losses, with nearly all the cavalry and all but two artillery pieces vanishing.[117] The devastating defeat of the III Corps prompted Miloradovich to offer Ney another opportunity for an honorable surrender.[118] In the early evening, Ney chose to withdraw with his remaining troops.[119][120] Following the advise of colonel Pelet he maneuvered around the Russian forces at Mankovo, tracing the Losvinka's path for several hours. By 9 p.m., they reached the desolate Syrokorene, located about 13 km north. There, they encountered a reserve of red beets, which they prepared for sustenance. At some point during the night, Ney learned of the impending threat by Denisov.[121]}} Amidst the darkness, he opted for a daring crossing of the Dnieper, purportedly between the remote hamlets of Alekseyevka, Varechki or Gusino. These spots boasted shallow river points but nearly vertical slopes.[122] Sappers employed logs and planks to create makeshift crossings over the ice. One by one, but not without significant losses, they managed, leaving two guns, part of the detachment and wounded who could not continue.[123]Шаблон:Efn Ney's men enduring the crossing on all fours,[124] with the elements and the Cossacks reduced their ranks to a mere 800 or 900 resolute soldiers.[125][126][127]

Шаблон:Blockquote

In the ensuing two days, Ney's valiant band defended against Cossack assaults as they traversed 90 km westward along the river, navigating swamps and forests in their search for the French army. Ney maintained his defiance, rejecting surrender as Platov's thousands of Cossacks pursued them halfway the river's right bank.[128][129][130] Covered with snow, the morale of the French soldiers shattered, with surrender becoming a contemplation for some. Escaping Miloradovitch, only to face capture by Hetman Platov, seemed an ironic twist.[118] The French army was yet to reach the borders of the Russian Empire. On 20 November, at three in the morning, Ney and Beauharnais were reunited near Orsha, an event that revitalized the demoralized French troops, offering an emotional uplift akin to a triumphant victory.[113] Ney's unwavering courage earned him the moniker "Bravest of the Brave" from Napoleon himself.

Correspondance by Napoleon

On 18 November Napoleon wrote a letter to Maret from Dubrowna:

Шаблон:Quote

On 7 January he wrote Francis II, Holy Roman Emperor, his father-in-law, from Paris:

Шаблон:Quote

Summary of results

Файл:Épisode de la campagne de Russie - Nicolas-Toussaint Charlet.jpg
An Episode from the Russian Campaign (1836) by Nicolas-Toussaint Charlet
Файл:Kutuzov by Volkov.jpg
Field marshal Kutuzov, who survived two brain injuries,[131] chose not to wage a major battle at Krasnoi despite his army's superior strength. One of the two portraits by Roman Maksimovich Volkov
Файл:On the big road (Vereshchagin) - detail.jpg
Napoleon with a stick, because of the icey surface. Leaving Krasny, he was looking back every 15 minutes, in the hope Ney would arrive. He is surrounded by the Old Guards. Painting by Vasily Vereshchagin

Krasnoi's portrayal in historical literature offers contrasting perspectives. Older, more traditional texts focus solely on the Imperial Guard's actions on November 17, presenting the encounter as a French victory. These accounts even go so far as to suggest a major combat and a Russian retreat. Chandler's account echoes this older Bonapartist summary of the battle.Шаблон:Efn On the other hand, the latest narratives of the event by Riehn, Cate, and Smith view it as an incomplete Russian triumph over the Шаблон:Lang. Napoleon made a great mistake, because the enemy was not following upon his rear, but moving along a lateral road.[9] Kutuzov had cut off Napoleon and wiped out Davout.[132]

The overall French losses in the Krasny skirmishes are estimated to range between 6,000, 13,000 and 15,000 killed; 1,200 wounded were treated by Larrey,[133] with an additional 26,000 captured by the Russians.[134]Шаблон:Efn Almost all of the French prisoners were stragglers.[2] Many of these captives were transported to Tambov and Smolensk. The French also forfeited about 230 artillery pieces, half of which were abandoned, along with a significant portion of their supply train and cavalry.[2] Russian casualties, in contrast, are estimated at no more than 5,000 killed and wounded. Adam Zamoyski, following Buturlin is another opinion: between Maloyaroslavets and Krasny, Kutuzov had lost 30,000 men, and as many again had fallen behind, leaving him with only 26,500 available for action.[135][136]

Шаблон:Blockquote

For a couple of days, French soldiers faced dire scarcity of sustenance and endured temperatures ranging from -12 to -25°C (-13 °F), along with strong winds, an abondance of snow and the discomfort of wet feet during thaw. The staff received delayed reports, and their orders either arrived too late or failed to reach them altogether.[72]Шаблон:Efn

Шаблон:Blockquote

According to Minard's map, around 24,000 men reached Orsha. The Vth corps comprising 5,150 men joined forces with 1,200 soldiers of the VIIIth corps under Junot, successfully reaching Orsha on 16 November.[137]Шаблон:Efn It is believed Napoleon entered Orsha with 6,000 guards, the remnants of 35,000, Eugene with 1,800 troops, the remains of 42,000 and Davout with 4,000, the remains of 70,000![138] Napoleon's reunion with Ney, along with what was left of the III provided a glimmer of hope to rebuild his army around which to rally for the forthcoming Battle of Berezina and the War of the Sixth Coalition. According to Kutuzov:

Шаблон:Blockquote

Krasny unquestionably stands as a Russian victory, albeit a notably unsatisfactory one.Tsar Alexander I expressed disappointment in Kutuzov for not completely annihilating the remaining French forces. Yet, due to Kutuzov's considerable popularity with the Russian aristocracy, Alexander bestowed upon him the victory title of Prince of Smolensk for his achievements in this battle.

The reasons behind Kutuzov's decision not to obliterate the last vestiges of the French troops during the offensive remain unclear. General Шаблон:Ill, Russian military historian, suggested Kutuzov's reluctance to jeopardize the lives of his exhausted and frostbitten troops. Mikhnevich cited Kutuzov's own words, "All that [the French army] will collapse without me".[139]Шаблон:Efn General Robert Wilson, the British liaison officer attached to the Russian Army, documented Kutuzov's late 1812 statement, Шаблон:Blockquote

Wilson strongly accused Kutuzov of deliberately releasing Napoleon from Russia. Шаблон:-

In popular culture

Participants

Файл:Красны. вул. Пралетарская.png
A road in Krasny (2022) with Izba
Louise Fusil

Louise Fusil, a French singer and actress, who was living in Russia for six years and returned with François Joseph Lefebvre, commanding the Old Guard, wrote:

Шаблон:Blockquote

At Krasny Fusil picked up an infant, left by its mother twice and took it to France.[140] It is unclear what happened to Madame Aurore de Bursay, the leader of the French Theatre in Moscow. She sat in her theatre costume on top of a cannon.[141] According to Jean-François Boulart:

Шаблон:Blockquote

Dominique Jean Larrey
Файл:Красны, вул Кірава 3.png
Typical house in Krasny

The French surgeon Dominique Jean Larrey wrote:

Шаблон:Blockquote

Literature

Файл:Tolstoy - War and Peace - ninth draft.jpg
Tolstoy - War and Peace - ninth draft

Leo Tolstoy references the battle in his War and Peace. Throughout the novel, but particularly in this section, Tolstoy defends Kutuzov's actions, arguing that he was less interested in the glory of routing Napoleon than in saving Russian soldiers and allowing the French to continue destroying themselves with a swift retreat.[142]Шаблон:Rp

Шаблон:Quote

In the "Epilogue," Tolstoy offers his thoughts on the historical events depicted in the novel and discusses his philosophy of history. The second part of the epilogue contains Tolstoy's critique of all existing forms of mainstream history. He shares his perspective on the limitations of traditional historiography and questions the prevailing notion that history is solely shaped by the actions of great individuals. Instead, Tolstoy emphasizes the role of collective actions and the interconnectedness of various societal forces in shaping historical events.[143]

Paintings

Файл:PPN663958857 Marschall Davoust (1813).jpg
Marshall Davout (1813)


Battle painters were busy catching the frequent acts of war during this campaign.[144]

Anniversaries

Файл:Louis-Nicolas Davout's batoon (Hermitage) 01 by shakko.jpg
Copy of Davout's baton (Hermitage)

At the 100-year anniversary of the battle, Russian pride in the achievement was still strong. Memorials were erected at Borodino, Smolensk and Krasny, and Sytin's Military Encyclopedia from 1913 included an illustrated article about the "Battle of Krasnoi"[145] with two sketches of the troop formations and copies of Peter von Hess' battle paintings. Around 1931 the monument at Krasny was demolished, but reerected in 2012?Шаблон:Efn In 2012, celebrating the 200th anniversary of the successful Battle of Krasnoi, the Moscow Mint issued a currency (5 rubles) with a special coinage.[146]

See also

Notes

Шаблон:Notelist

References

Шаблон:Reflist

Sources

in English
in French

External links

Файл:Alison's history of Europe atlas 1850 (92104159).jpg
Keith Johnston: Battle of Krasnoi on 16, 17 & 18 November 1812

Шаблон:Sequence Шаблон:Napoleonic Wars

  1. 1,0 1,1 Lieven, p. 267.
  2. 2,0 2,1 2,2 2,3 Foord, p. 343.
  3. 3,0 3,1 Lieven, pp. 267–268.
  4. Mémoires militaires du lieutenant général comte Roguet, p. 513
  5. Smith, pp. 201–203
  6. http://pokrovsky.newgod.su/research/protiv-istoricheskoj-koncepcii-pokrovskogo-1/m-n-pokrovskij-o-vojne-1812-goda/
  7. Mémoires militaires du lieutenant général comte Roguet, p. 512-513
  8. Bogdanovich, p. 137-138
  9. 9,0 9,1 Antoine-Henri Jomini (1838) The Art of War, p. 235
  10. Zamoyski, A. (2004) 1812: Napoleon's fatal march on Moscow, p. 422, 427
  11. Clausewitz, p. 212, 214
  12. 12,0 12,1 Ошибка цитирования Неверный тег <ref>; для сносок lieven268 не указан текст
  13. Wilson, 276
  14. Bogdanovich (1861) History of the Great Patriotic War of 1812, p. 136
  15. Smith, pp. 201–203.
  16. The Grande Armée's implosion during the first stage of the retreat is summarized by Chandler (p. 823); Riehn (pp. 322, 335–337, 341); Cate (pp. 343–347) and Zamoyski (377–385).
  17. Georges de Chambray (1825) Histoire de l'expédition de Russie: avec un atlas et trois vignettes, Volume 2, p. 436
  18. Wilson, p. 253
  19. Les bulletins françois, concernant la guerre en Russie, pendant l'année, 1812, p. 98
  20. Georges de Chambray (1825) Histoire de l'expédition de Russie: avec un atlas et trois vignettes, Volume 2, p. 381
  21. Шаблон:Cite web
  22. Riehn, pp. 343–345.
  23. Riehn, p. 349.
  24. Riehn, pp. 349–350.
  25. Georges de Chambray (1825) Histoire de l'expédition de Russie: avec un atlas et trois vignettes, Volume 2, p. 419
  26. Die Deutschen in Russland 1812, p. 64
  27. 27,0 27,1 Napoléon Et la Grande Armée en Russie, Ou, Examen Critique de L'ouvrage de M. Le Comte Ph. de Ségur by Gaspard Baron Gourgaud (1825), p. 398
  28. Riehn, pp. 350–351, discusses the Grande Armée's order of march at this juncture and summarizes it as "an open invitation to disaster".
  29. Mémoires militaires du lieutenant général comte Roguet, p. 510-511
  30. Puybusque, L.G. de (1816) Lettres sur la guerre de Russie en 1812, p. 123
  31. Bogdanovich, p. 105
  32. 32,0 32,1 Roguet, p. 518
  33. Parkinson, p. 208; Riehn, pp. 337–338; Cate, p. 348.
  34. Wilson, p. 265
  35. Parkinson, pp. 213–214.
  36. Bogdanovich (1861) Geschichte des vaterländischen Krieges 1812, p. 119 (History of the Great Patriotic War of 1812)
  37. THE CAMPAIGN OF 1812 IN RUSSIA by CARL VON CLAUSEWITZ, p. 207
  38. 38,0 38,1 Riehn, p. 351.
  39. Foord, p. 334
  40. 40,0 40,1 "Campagne et captivité en Russie, extraits des mémoires inédits du géneral-major H.P. Everts, traduits par M.E. Jordens" Carnet de la Sabretache, 1901, p. 698
  41. [1] [2] [3] Recent photos by Elena Minina (2023), Smolensk
  42. Cate, p. 358; Riehn, pp. 351–352.
  43. Puybusque, L.G. de (1816) Lettres sur la guerre de Russie en 1812, p. 147
  44. 44,0 44,1 Wilson, p. 267
  45. 45,0 45,1 Wilson, p. 272
  46. Ошибка цитирования Неверный тег <ref>; для сносок Manuscript of 1812 Baron Fain не указан текст
  47. 47,0 47,1 Riehn, p. 352.
  48. 48,0 48,1 Segur, p. 202.
  49. Puybusque, L.G. de (1816) Lettres sur la guerre de Russie en 1812, p. 128
  50. Cate, p. 358.
  51. Mémoires du général Rapp, p. 252
  52. Cate (p. 359); Segur (pp. 199–201). David Chandler and many other historians confuse this night attack by the Young Guard against Ozharovsky on 15/16 November with the Imperial Guard's feint against the Russian center on the morning of 17 November. Chandler et al. are in error on this count.
  53. Foord, p. 338
  54. Adam Zamoysky (2004) Moscow 1812, p. 421
  55. Buturlin, p. 209
  56. Foord, p. 341
  57. 57,0 57,1 Wilson, p. 268
  58. 58,0 58,1 D. Buturlin (1824) Histoire militaire de la campagne de Russie en 1812, p. 213
  59. THE CAMPAIGN OF 1812 IN RUSSIA by CARL VON CLAUSEWITZ, p. 77-79
  60. General Robert Wilson: Narrative of events during the Invasion of Russia by Napoleon Bonaparte, and the Retreat of the French Army, 1812, p. 269 access-date=14 February 2021
  61. Bogdanovich, p. 112
  62. Rzewski V.S. & V.A. Chudinov Russian "members" of the French revolution // French Yearbook 2010: Sources of the history of the French revolution of the XVIII century and the era of Napoleon. M.C. 6-45.
  63. Moscow 1812: Napoleon's Fatal March, p. 519
  64. Wilson, p. 271
  65. History of Europe (from 1789 to 1815). Volume 10, p. 79 by sir Archibald Alison (1855) ]
  66. 66,0 66,1 Шаблон:Cite web
  67. Napoléon Et la Grande Armée en Russie, Ou, Examen Critique de L'ouvrage de M. Le Comte Ph. de Ségur by Gaspard Baron Gourgaud (1825), p. 403-404
  68. Wilson, p. 269.
  69. Segur, p. 421.
  70. Adam Zamoysky (2004) Moscow 1812, p. 422
  71. Wilson, p. 274.
  72. 72,0 72,1 72,2 Шаблон:Cite web
  73. Roguet, p. 516
  74. 74,0 74,1 Caulaincourt, p. 219.
  75. 75,0 75,1 Caulaincourt, p. 220.
  76. Alison's map (1855) in higher resolution
  77. Roguet, p. 518; 5,000 men under Napoleon, 6,000 under Mortier = 11,000
  78. Шаблон:Cite book
  79. https://ru.wikisource.org/wiki/ВЭ/ДО/Красный
  80. Foord, p. 336-337
  81. Wilson, p. 269
  82. F.H.A. Sabron (1910) Geschiedenis van het 33ste Regiment Lichte Infanterie (Het Oud-Hollandsche 3de Regiment Jagers) onder Keizer Napoleon I, p. 104. Koninklijke Militaire Academie, Breda
  83. Bogdanovich, p. 114-117
  84. Human voices from the Russian campaign of 1812 by Arthur Chuquet (1912)
  85. Шаблон:Cite web
  86. D. Buturlin (1824) Histoire militaire de la campagne de Russie en 1812, p. 217
  87. 87,0 87,1 Wilson, p. 270.
  88. D. Buturlin (1824) Histoire militaire de la campagne de Russie en 1812, p. 217
  89. 89,0 89,1 Cate, p. 361.
  90. Foord, p. 339
  91. F.H.A. Sabron (1910) Geschiedenis van het 33ste Regiment Lichte Infanterie (Het Oud-Hollandsche 3de Regiment Jagers) onder Keizer Napoleon I, p. 110. Koninklijke Militaire Academie, Breda
  92. Carnets et journal sur la campagne de Russie : extraits du Carnet de La Sabretache, années 1901-1902-1906-1912. Baron Jean Jacques Germain Pelet; M.E. Jordens; Guillaume Bonnet; Henri-Pierre Everts. Paris : Librairie Historique F. Teissèdre, 1997, p. 698-699.
  93. THE CAMPAIGN OF 1812 IN RUSSIA by CARL VON CLAUSEWITZ, p. 79
  94. Georges de Chambray (1825) Histoire de l'expédition de Russie: avec un atlas et trois vignettes, Volume 2, p. 450
  95. Segur, p. 205; Bourgogne, p. 119.
  96. Bourgogne, p. 249; Roguet, p. 521
  97. Zamoyski, pp. 422–423.
  98. Buturlin, p. 222-224
  99. Wilson, pp. 273–274.
  100. Mémoires du général Rapp (1823), p. 254
  101. Jakob Walter Шаблон:Cite book at the Internet Archive
  102. Wilson, p. 283
  103. Les mémoires de chirurgie militaire et campagne de D.J. Larrey, Volume 4, p 96
  104. Wilson, p. 273.
  105. Wilson, pl. 276
  106. Dedem van Gelder, A.B. (1900) Mémoires du général baron Dedem de Gelder (1774–1825). Un général hollandais sous le premier empire, p. 283
  107. Ошибка цитирования Неверный тег <ref>; для сносок Buturlin не указан текст
  108. Шаблон:Cite web
  109. Lieven, p. 268
  110. Zamoyski, p. 427
  111. CG12 - 32051. - AU MARÉCHAL BERTHIER, MAJOR GÉNÉRAL DE LA GRANDE ARMÉE
  112. Шаблон:Cite web
  113. 113,0 113,1 Шаблон:Cite web
  114. Wilson, p. 278.
  115. D. Buturlin (1824) Histoire militaire de la campagne de Russie en 1812, p. 226
  116. Wilson, p. 278
  117. Шаблон:Cite web
  118. 118,0 118,1 Шаблон:Cite web
  119. Les bulletins françois, concernant la guerre en Russie, pendant l'année, 1812, p. 99
  120. Holzhausen, p. 74
  121. Wilson, p. 280
  122. [4] [5] [6] show photos of the Losvinka and Dniepr by Elena Minina, Smolensk
  123. Шаблон:Cite web
  124. Ошибка цитирования Неверный тег <ref>; для сносок auto не указан текст
  125. Raymond-Aymery-Philippe-Joseph de Montesquiou, duc de Fezensac (1849) The Russian campaign, 1812, p. 87
  126. Rickard, J (26 June 2014), Second battle of Krasnyi, 15-18 November 1812, http://www.historyofwar.org/articles/battles_krasnyi_2nd.html
  127. Шаблон:Cite book
  128. Wilson, p. 277
  129. Шаблон:Cite webp, 170-173
  130. Holzhausen, p. 76
  131. Two bullets to the head and an early winter: fate permits Kutuzov to defeat Napoleon at Moscow (2016)
  132. Zamoyski, p. 431
  133. Les mémoires de chirurgie militaire et campagne de D.J. Larrey, Volume 4, p 93
  134. Mémoires militaires du lieutenant général comte Roguet, p. 628
  135. Zamoyski, p. 434
  136. Buturlin, p. 235
  137. Briefe in die Heimath: Geschrieben während des Feldzuges 1812 in Russland by Friedrich Wilhelm von Lossberg, p. 260
  138. Digby Smith, p. 205
  139. Михневич Н. Отечественная война 1812 г. // История русской армии, 1812—1864 гг.. — СПб.: Полигон, 2003. — С. 45—46.
  140. SOUVENIRS D'UNE ACTRICE, vol 2
  141. Un général hollandais sous le premier empire, p. 282
  142. Шаблон:Cite book
  143. Шаблон:Cite web
  144. Katharina PAINSI (2013) DIE DARSTELLUNG DES NAPOLEONISCHEN FELDZUGES VON 1812 IN DER RUSSISCHEN MALEREI DES 19. JAHRHUNDERTS
  145. Шаблон:Cite book
  146. L.A. Evdokimov: Battle of Krasnoi. 5 ruble coin. Moscow Mint, June 18, 2012