The Russian History of the War of 1813 Volume 1

Available for the first time in English, Bogdanovich’s Russian History of the War of 1813 continues where the History of the War of 1812 left off. In describing the events of 1813, the author strives to give an accurate portrayal of one of the most important years in European history and pays tribute to the service of the Russian army in the liberation of Germany. Russia, of course, could not defeat Napoleon alone. But the Russians, having begun the war in Prussia and the Duchy of Warsaw without the assistance of allies, managed to draw Prussia into their cause, and eventually (in Volume 2) Austria, Sweden and Britain.

This book will appeal to those interested in Napoleonic military history, as well as to wargamers, and gives a fascinating insight into the surprisingly cosmopolitan Russian army officers of that era. Although Bogdanovich had access to Russian state archives and private papers, he also makes extensive use of published German and French memoirs and histories in order to provide additional context and balance. Volume 1 covers the period from the Russian invasion of the Duchy of Warsaw up to the Armistice of June 1813, including the defection of Prussia to the Russian cause, the liberation of Berlin and Hamburg, the invasion of Saxony and the monumental battles of Lützen and Bautzen followed by the Russo-Prussian fighting retreat into Silesia. Volume 2 will cover from the resumption of hostilities in August 1813 until the Coalition advance to the Rhine by December 1813.

"I have made no secret of my admiration for Modest Ivanovich Bogdanovich’s epic multi-volume account of Russia’s campaigns against Napoleon, and this latest weighty instalment, The Russian History of the War of 1813: The War to Liberate Germany, Volume 1, only reinforces that respect....if you enjoyed the previous volumes in this monumental series, you’ll find The War of 1813: Volume 1 an essential continuation. If you are new to Bogdanovich, do not be daunted; start with 1812, but know that this volume marks a real turning point in the narrative, as the war shifts from defence to liberation and, ultimately, to vengeance. The Russian bear is on the move westward, and Bogdanovich is its most eloquent chronicler. Highly recommended for students of the Napoleonic Wars, Russian military history enthusiasts, and anyone with a love of well-told campaign history." carryingsonupthedale Blog