Napoleon's Downfall 1812-1815

When did Russia and Prussia form an anti-French alliance?

Feb 1813 (forming fourth coalition)

Was Austria initially accepting of the fourth coalition?

NO, it initially only consisted of Britain, Russia and Prussia-- Austria views it with suspicion

How did NB face military strain in summer 1813?

By Summer 1813 NB was fighting two fronts-- France vs Spain and France vs Prussia/Russia

How was Austria somewhat allied to France?

Dur to NB's marriage alliance with Marie-Louise in 1810

Why did Austria suggest that NB accept a peace settlement in summer 1813?

Because France was fighting two fronts, Russia/Prussia are defeating France in central Europe

Why did Austria declare war on France in August 1813?

NB's reluctance to agree to a peace settlement despite Austrian encouragement of it

What was significant about Austria declaring war against France in August 1813?

This was the first time that all major powers were fighting against France at the same time

How did NB appear resistant to peace?

He refused a peace conference with Russia/Prussia and then refused to negotiate with the fourth coalition in Prague

How did Prussia recover and improve since 1806 Jena Auerstadt?

Improved weapons, training, tactics + they evaded treaty terms saying they had to limit their army-- they had 120,000 men by 1812

When and where was the Battle of the Nations?

October 1813 at Leipzig

Outcome of the Battle of the Nations for NB?

NB was outnumbered by all four nations and was heavily defeated, forced back into the Rhine-- big and embarassing defeat for NB

Did NB accept peace after the Battle of the Nations?

NB did not accept a very generous peace agreement which would have allowed him to keep France's 'natural frontiers', instead he levied 900,000 men (only a fraction of these are ever actually conscripted)

When was the Treaty of Chaumont? What was it?

March 1814-- this cements the unity of the Quadruple Alliance and they agree to not disband until Napoleon has been removed from power (Britain is the driving force behind this decision)

How were Austria and Prussia stronger military forces in 1812?

They both had reformed their whole armies

How had the members of the fourth coalition improved tactically?

They adopted NB's tactics and used them against him-- Spain and Russia adopted the tactic of wearing down the enemy