How did the Russians defeat Napoleon's superior Grand Army?

Prepare for your High School World History Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Each question provides hints and explanations to boost your readiness.

The defeat of Napoleon’s Grand Army by the Russians is largely attributed to their strategy of retreating and burning their own villages, a tactic known as scorched earth. This approach involved the Russian forces strategically withdrawing in the face of advancing French troops while simultaneously destroying any resources that could be useful to the enemy. This not only deprived Napoleon’s army of food and supplies but also forced them to stretch their supply lines thin, making sustenance and reinforcements increasingly difficult.

As Napoleon continued his march deeper into Russia, he faced the harsh realities of the vast land, the deteriorating morale of his troops, and the onset of severe winter conditions. The combination of the long supply lines and the relentless Russian winter played a crucial role in the eventual retreat and disarray of his forces. Additionally, with no local resources remaining due to the scorched earth policy, the Grand Army suffered devastating losses from starvation, exposure, and attacks from Russian troops as they tried to retreat.

This strategic withdrawal, alongside the relentless adversities faced by Napoleon’s troops, was pivotal in undermining what was initially believed to be an unstoppable military force.

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