Lions Led By Donkeys Podcast Episode 99 - French Invasion of Russia Part 5: Moscow is Decadent and Depraved.
Apr 6, 2020
Moscow burns while French forces struggle with looting, fires, and collapsing order. Napoleon drifts into paperwork and failed politics as supply lines and morale crumble. Cossack raids and harsh winter preparations add pressure. A chaotic mass exodus forms as soldiers, civilians, and wagons begin the desperate migration out of the city.
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Empty Capital, Failed Ceremonies
- Napoleon expected a ceremonial surrender but found Moscow emptied and chaotic.
- He tried to install makeshift civil administration from illiterate locals and criminals who remained in the city.
Arson, No Water, Total Anarchy
- Moscow's police superintendent stayed and set fires, then removed water pumps to prevent firefighting.
- The French garrison could not control the blazes and looting erupted into three days of anarchy and violence.
Burned Capital Strengthened Resolve
- Alexander refused negotiations and aimed to make Napoleon choose between him or the czar.
- The burning of Moscow removed French propaganda value and stiffened Russian resistance instead of breaking it.