Defeat And Downfall Of The Empire Flashcards
Which two events played a major role in Napoleon’s downfall?
- The Peninsular War (1808-14)
- Invasion of Russia (1812)
What was the origin of the Peninsular War (hint-Britain)?
The continental system was failing because Portugal continued to supply its ally Britain
When did Napoleon depose the Spanish King and place his brother on the throne?
May 1808
What did placing Napoleon’s brother Joseph on the throne cause?
- Spanish revolts
- Drainage of French Resources due to maintaining garrisons (troops) in Spain
- Interference of the British military in order to defeat and Franco-Spanish attack on Portugal
- People to doubt Napoleon due to being unable to solve the situation
Did Britain drive the Franco-Spanish fleets out of Portugal?
Yes
When did the Duke of Wellington defeat Napoleon’s army?
1808
Why was the Duke or Wellington successful in defeating Napoleon?
Because he was able to exploit France’s lack of supplies and take advantage of his own, the British supplies
When did the Duke of Wellington drive French troops out of Spain?
1814
What was the Spanish Ulcer?
A term used by Napoleon to demonstrate how Spain weakened France financially and spiritually without defeating them
When was the Treaty of Tilsit and what was it?
1807 - an alliance between France and Russia
What was the main reason for the French and Russian conflict?
In 1810, Tsar retreated from the Continental Blockade and began to trade with Britain whilst discriminating against France
What happened on the 22nd June 1812?
Napoleon and 600,000 men entered Russian territory
Which tactic did the Russians use to defeat the French?
Scorched earth tactics whilst luring the French deeper into Russia
When did the Russian army finally face the French and become defeated?
7th September
What happened when Napoleon arrived in Moscow?
It had been abandoned and set on fire
When did Napoleon decide to retreat and why?
October - he realised his army were going to starve to death
What were the main reasons for the Russian defeat?
- Russian tactics
- Overconfidence
- Lack of knowledge
- Lack of supplies
What happened after the Russian invasion?
The great powers (Britain, Russia, Austria and Prussia) formed another coalition and were at war with Napoleon
When was the Battle of the Nations, who was involved and how long did it last?
Date - October 1813
Involved - Russia, Austria and Prussia vs. France
Length - 3 days
What was the Treaty of Chaumont and when was it signed?
March 1814 - an alliance between the Great Powers which vowed to remain allied to one another until Napoleon’s defeat
What did the Great Powers do to cause Napoleon to abdicate?
In March 1814, they marched into Paris and restored the Bourbon Monarchy by placing Louis XVIII on the throne
Why did Napoleon leave Elba?
Received news that the Great Powers were divided due to differences and chose to take advantage
What did Napoleon do after he left Elba?
Gathered an army of former soldiers and began the 100 days campaign
When was the Battle of Waterloo?
June 1815
Why did France lose the Battle of Waterloo?
Because despite their slight numerical advantage, Prussian armies arrived and ensured their defeat
