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[Lt. Campers]

Russian warships on the Tagus

An interesting sideshow to the French invasion of Portugal and the subsequent Vimeiro
campaign following the British landings in Portugal.
Was the matter of the Russian naval squadron that ( by chance ) found itself caught
up in the conflict and trapped between rival factions on the Tagus.

Background - Russian naval operations in the Mediterranean

In 1805 the russian Tsar Alexander I embroiled in several coalitions to forestall
Napoleon's conquest of Europe - mounted a naval operation in the Med to
prevent French expansion into the Adriatic. So warships were dispatched from
both the Baltic and Black Sea fleets to form a Mediterranean squadron under the
command of Vice-Admiral Senyavin.
These warships were to proceed to the Ionian islands, establishing a base of
operations on the largest of the islands, Corfu. The Ionian islands, formally owned by
the Venetian's upto Napoleon's conquest of Venice, fell to France and then were
handed over to Russia following another war in Italy back in 1800.
Anyway Senyavin was russia's most able navy commander, having distinguished
himself in the Russo-Turkish wars. Naturally Russia welcomed the chance to exert
influence in the Mediterranean.

Soviet postage stamp commemorating Admiral Senyavin

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Once settled in at Corfu, the russian squadron quickly changed the balance of power
in the Adriatic where the British could spare only a few ships, in the face
of greater commitments off the French and Spanish coast.
Therefore the British admiral Lord Collingwood welcomed the Russians in
the Med where they captured a few islands and prevented the French
taking control of the Ionian islands.
By September 1806 the russians had complete control over the southern
Adriatic sea, disrupting Dubrovnik's sea trade.

Diary of an English surgeon - serving aboard the Russian flagship

Here's an interesting account of the life of an english surgeon, serving aboard a russian
warship - he later went on to serve on many Royal navy ships - following the Treaty of
Tilsit in 1807.

Diary of an English surgeon in the Russian navy

Treaty of Tilsit
However Tsar Alexanders attempts to support the Prussians against the
invading French in the War of the fourth Coalition, ended in disaster at
the Battle of Friedland in June 1807.

Napoleon at the Battle of Friedland

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Battle of Freidland - June 1807

Napoleon's victory over the Russians at Friedland, 1807	powered by Aeva

Thus forcing Tsar Alexander to sue for peace with Napoleon, the conditions of
which was an alliance with France, over the continental blockade of Britian and as
a subclause - the Ionian Islands and Cattaro; captured by Russian admirals Ushakov
and Senyavin, were to be handed over to the French.
Naturally the Russian admiral was furious about forfeiting his conquests
( as a result of Tilsit ) but with the Tsar ordering his Mediterranean fleet back
fto base, a large part of the squadron sailed back to Sevastopol in the Crimea
while the remainder ( led by Senyavin ) was to return to the russian fleet
in the Baltic - where they hoped to be engaged in a new war with Sweden.

Trapped in Portugal

On 19th September 1807, Senyavin's squadron set sail from Corfu round
Gibralter and into the Atlantic, enroute for Saint Petersburg when stormy
weather ( damaging two ships ) forced him to seek shelter and repairs in
the neutral port of Lisbon on 30th October. Within several days the
Portuguese royal family fled Portugal for Brazil, following a French invasion
of Portugal with Lisbon falling to the French, only a couple of days later.
Following the fall of Lisbon, the British soon imposed a naval blockade of
Portuguese capitol.
Senyavin tried to send word to Saint Petersburg by dispatching a Russian warship
but this soon came under attack from British warships blocking the Tagus.

Russian warship engaging a british frigate

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Back to the Peninsular Wars, events in Portugal and beyond

With no hope of escaping Portugal without becoming involved in a major sea battle against the British,
Senyavin decides to sit tight on the Tagus and finish off repairs to his storm damaged ships.
Napoleon ( on the othe hand ) hearing of Senyavin's plight, pleads with the Tsar for the right
to issue his own orders to Senyavin in Lisbon.
Both Napoleon and General Junot, saw an opportunity to break the British blockade of Lisbon
and disrupt any British landings, if only they can take control of the Russian squadron.
But Admiral Senyavin ignores Napoleon's orders and that of Genral Junot who together with
Kellerman held frequent meetings with the Russian admiral who remained neutral throughout
the conflict.
Following the British landings and General Wellesley's victory over the French at Vimeiro.
Junot signed an armistice with the British and Portuguese that became
the Convention of Sintra - leaving Senyavin out on a limb. His force of seven battleships and
one frigate were no match against the British fleets guns of 15 battleships
and 10 frigates  plus any coastal artillery that can be brought to bear on the
Russian fleet.
Senyavin remained adament about his neutrality and threatened to bombard the port of Lisbon
before finally blowing up his ships, if attacked by the British.

French battery, originally deployed to protect Lisbon harbour against the
British are now turned against the Russian fleet:

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British open fire on the nearest Russian frigate:

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Cannon shot falls short of its target prompting the russian frigate to
return fire:

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Back to the Peninsular Wars, events in Portugal and beyond

They shall not pass - British royal navy frigates patrolling the mouth of the Tagus
ready to engage any russian warship that tries to leave Lisbon:

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The Convention of Sintra - with clauses concerning the russian fleet:

Convention of Sintra, clause concerning the Russian fleet

So the British admiral Sir Charles Cotton entered into negociations with Senyavin that would lead to an
agreement between the British and Russians respecting the neutrality of the Russian fleet in
the Tagus.
The detention of the russian fleet was incorporated into the Convention whereby russian warships
would sail, under escort to Britain where they would be detained in british ports until their
war with Sweden was over.
Following which they would be free to return to Russia.

[Lt. Campers]

Napoleon's Imperial Ball and Congress in Erfurt

Events move to Germany this weekend as Napoleon together with
other heads of state in Europe forge a new alliance
 
With the evacuation of French troops from Portugal following the
Convention of Sintra, Napoleon's hopes of a quick and easy victory
in Portugal and elsewhere on the Iberian Peninsular are dashed.
As you know following a couple of debacles in the Spanish Peninsular
this year ( 1808 ) most notably at Bailen in July - with the surrender of
General Dupont's corp to the Spanish and more recently at Vimiero with
the complete defeat and surrender of General Junot's french, Army of
Portugal to the british.
Napoleon is livid at the poor performance of his generals in the
Spanish Peninsular. So seeing that his got a fight on his hands.
Napoleon has called for an Imperial conference or Congress at the german
city of Erfurt this weekend. Where he hopes to see Tsar Alexander reaffirm
his alliegence to France ( struck at the Treaty of Tilset ) while also
looking to gain more support from the client states of the French dominated
Confederation of the Rhine ( in terms of men and money ) for the war in
Spain.

Napoleon and Tsar Alexander agree terms at the Treaty of Tilsit
following Russia's defeat at the Battle of Friedland

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Congress of Erfurt, Germany 1808

Naturally several german tv channels will be covering the event
taking place over the weekend which will include an International
Napoleonic armies bivouac at the Petersburg Citidal, miltary parades,
concerts and martial music at the Fishmarket and Old town of Erfurt, plus
performances of the renowned Comedie Francais, with the highlight of the
show being Napoleon's Imperial Ball at the University Ballhaus at 7pm
on sunday 28th September. Leo Tolstoy, eat your heart out !!!

For many of you who cannot tear yourself away to see this historic
event - the good news is that Napoleonic War correspondents from the
german tv channel MDR will be onhand to record the historic event.

Anyway the details of the event - for many of you sitting at home, in
front of your PC's drooling over the costumes and gossip on the biggest
social event of the Napoleonic calander. Heres the details:

The Congress of Erfurt website:

Details of Congress of Erfurt, re-enacted

In german but to translate it just copy/paste the webpage you want
to see in english using Google and click translate. Eg the program of
the event:

Congress of Erfurt, program of events

German tv channel MDR will be broadcasting highlights of the
Congress of Erfurt on tv and over the internet on sunday 28th September
from 14:00hrs to 16:00hrs CET time

MDR TV on the event

MDR TV coverage

One of the events - namely the Parade of Napoleons troops at the
Fishmarket in Erfurt will ( hopefully ) be covered on the following webcam:
Scheduled for friday 26th September at 16:00hrs CET time

Webcam covering the fish market

[Capt.Ted]

Lt Campers - You are the CNN of the Nap Wars,    I will certainly be keeping a look out
for Napoleon on the webcam today - although my experience in catching glimpses
of events on local webcams shows its a very hit or miss affair.
Still the MDR tv report on sunday should be interesting, if its broadcast over the internet.

[Lt. Campers]

Congress of Erfurt opens today

As you know events are moving quickly on the Napoleonic front as I
endeavour to keep you abreast of international developements in Europe
following the defeat of Napoleon's army in Portugal last month.
Napoleon's Congress of Erfurt will be opening in Germany today and high
on the agenda are discussions amoungst Napoleon and his allies on how
best to move forward following the recent setbacks in Spain and
Portugal.
Napoleon's troops are already encamped at the Petersburg Citadel in
Erfurt where they await the arrival of Tsar Alexander's entourage
including his best russian troops for the 2 day conference.
Obviously theirs much to discuss on the agenda - what with Boney's recent defeats in
Spain ( at Bailen, July 1808 ) and of course in Portugal following the Battle of Vimiero.

Battle of Bailen on wikipedia:

Battle of Bailen, french defeated

French line infantry marching into the city of Erfurt

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Followed by Napoleon's Imperial Guard

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Back to the Peninsular Wars, events in Portugal and beyond

Back to the Peninsular Wars, events in Portugal and beyond

German police closed several main roads for Napoleon's troops to march into the
city

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From the opposite end of the city - Russian cavalry and hussars signal
the arrival of the Tsar's entourage

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Followed by Russian infantry:

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Tsar Alexander enters the city in his carriage

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Following him are troops of the Russian Imperial Guard

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Back to the Peninsular Wars, events in Portugal and beyond

French troops march past city hall where the two emperors will meet

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Napoleon arrives first at the meeting place

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Where after taking salutes from his loyal troops - he awaits the arrival of the Tsar

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Napoleon greets Tsar Alexander on the steps of City hall

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Napoleon is invited to inspect the Tsars Imperial Guard

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Napoleon and Alexander meet other important guests as their are many
German Princes, French marshalls and Russian generals to meet

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Back to the Peninsular Wars, events in Portugal and beyond

Back to the Peninsular Wars, events in Portugal and beyond

Back to the Peninsular Wars, events in Portugal and beyond

Finally Napoleon and Alexander appear on the city mayors balcony to
take their salutes from the crowd

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MDR radio has already announced the opening of the conference - and heres the
link to the broadcast below: The radio programs are at the bottom of the webpage,
where so far you will find three broadcasts of the event - just click on
each photo in the box to hear the other radio programs or Click on
'Liste' at the top right hand side of the box.

MDR Radio announcement of the Congress of Erfurt:

Announcement on German radio

[Lt. Campers]

France and Russia reaffirm their alliance against Britain

Following the first day of talks in the German town of Erfurt yesterday. The French and
Russian foreign ministers of the Emperor's Napoleon and Alexander agree to impose
greater sanctions on Great Britain as part of the Continental wide blockade against
British goods.

Napoleon and Alexander ride to the Petersburg Citadel for the military
parade:

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Back to the Peninsular Wars, events in Portugal and beyond

The French fire a 21 gun salute for the French & Russian emperors

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Napoleon & Alexander enter the Citadel where they are about to watch
a joint military parade of the French & Russian Imperial armies

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Soldiers of Napoleon's Imperial guard form a cordon for the two emperors to walk
onto the parade ground

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Napoleon and Alexander take their places before inspecting the troops

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French & Russian infantry, hussars and heavy cavalry formed up, ready for inspection

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Russian infantry await their turn in the review

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Back to the Peninsular Wars, events in Portugal and beyond

Napoleon poses for the press before inspecting the troops

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Napoleon removes his hat as he acknowledges the salute of his troops

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Napoleon and Alexander shake hands following the parade

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Napoleon & Alexander mount their horses and make their way out of the
Citadel

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Back to the Peninsular Wars, events in Portugal and beyond

Speaking at their first joint military exercise at the Petersburg Citidel,. The French foreign minister
Charles Maurice de Talleyrand denounced the intervention of British troops in Portugal and
the Spanish peninsular as a gross interference in the affairs of Spain's new lawful King Joseph
Bonaparte. Further more while promising more French troops for the Spanish Peninsular and
the re-conquest of Portugal - Talleyrand complained about the impertinance of the British
Admiralty for presenting a bill to the Emperor, for the repatriation of his troops to France !!

The Emperors, Napoleon and Alexander hosting talks in Erfurt:

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With the opening of the Congess of Erfurt - French and Russian infantry & cavalry paraded
through the streets of Erfurt on friday before a long round of diplomatic talks, parades and
imperial balls begins over the weekend.

Of course the Kremlin also sent some of their top senior military advisors to the
three day Conference:

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You shall go to the Ball - A French officer on Napolean's general staff with his wife:

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Photo gallery and tv video of the military parade in Erfurt:
Click on zum video to watch Napoleon's parade.

Military parade - photo gallery

[Capt.Ted]

France and Russia reaffirm their alliance against Britain

Following the first day of talks in the German town of Erfurt yesterday. The French and
Russian foreign ministers of the Emperor's Napoleon and Alexander agree to impose
greater sanctions on Great Britain as part of the Continental wide blockade against
British goods.

What ! - British beef banned from european menu's again    - no wonder Boney's troops
are chanting 'Vive la Emperor' in the 4th MDR video on the Congress of Erfurt.
 

[Lt. Campers]

Thanks Ted, although theirs more than British beef at stake here.

Highlights of Napoleon's Erfurt Congress on MDR:

Germany's MDR have been broadcasting highlights of Napoleon's
conference ( Congress of Erfurt ) currently taking place in Germany.
This is a 200th anniversary recreation of the power politics taking place in
Europe following Napoleon's french army defeat at the Battle of Vimiero.
Where in escence, Napoleon is neutralising the threats to his empire from
the east ( ie the Austro-Hungarian empire and Russia ) in order to free
more troops for the Spanish revolt and the arrival of British troops in
Portugal.

The French and Russian encampments at Erfurt

The French and Russian armies established an encampment inside the fortress walls
of Erfurts, Petersburg Citadel for the duration of the Congress. Where as well as attending
many military parades and inspections for the two emperors. They also provided a glimpse
of camp life for soldiers and campfollowers on campaign in 1808, as well as the rigours of
military life, such as drill practice.


The French encampment

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Back to the Peninsular Wars, events in Portugal and beyond

A french platoon being put through its paces

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French fifers having some early morning practice on their flutes

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Typical scenes at the campfire

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Back to the Peninsular Wars, events in Portugal and beyond

After the parade - a hussar taking a nap in his tent

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MDR had radio programmes covering the miltary parades and meetings
between Napoleon and tsar Alexander of Russia but these may no longer be
available.

MDR Radio coverage


Napoleon's Imperial Ball

Following the parades on friday, saturday and sunday. Napoleon and Alexander held
an Imperial Ball at the University Ballhaus on sunday evening for all high ranking officials,
diplomats and minitsers attending the three day conference.

A high ranking Cossack with his wife on the steps of the Ballroom

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Napoleon, flanked by guards, waits at the entrance to the ballroom with
a lady friend

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French Marshalls and other staff officers await their guests:

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Russian Hussar and his lady enter the ballroom:

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Russian Cossack officer escorts his wife to the ball:

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French Officers and their guests enter the ballroom:

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Back to the Peninsular Wars, events in Portugal and beyond

Back to the Peninsular Wars, events in Portugal and beyond

Napoleon and Alexander are introduced to many guests attending the Ball

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A Senior officers lady is introduced to a French Marshall:

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Napoleon, flanked by his staff officers ladies take their seats for the ball:

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They are soon joined by Tsar Alexander with his staff officers and ladies:

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[Lt. Campers]

The Peninsular war in Spain 1808

With the British firmly in control of Portugal. Napoleon's grip on Spain has
been getting tenuous with every passing month, following the spainiards
fury over the enthronement of Joseph Boneparte; that sparked the Dos
de Mayo in Madrid and a series of popular uprisings throughout Spain.
French forces have been hard pressed - moving from province to province
trying to quell the spanish uprising but with the spanish rebels getting
bolder every day.
The Spanish army finally rebels against their french masters and traps an
entire French Corp at the town of Bailen, forcing its hapless commander,
General Dupont to surrender his entire army to the Spanish on 22nd July.

The French surrender after the Battle of Bailen

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Following Bailen the French had to evacuate Madrid and retire to the river
Elbro to set up new defensive positions against the spanish rebels.
Napoleon was infuriated with Dupont and promptly arrested and imprisoned
him following his return to Paris.

Fortnuately the RTVA Andalucia TV have produced a very good 47.5
minute documentary on the Spanish uprising and the events leading upto
the Battle of Bailen that you can watch below.

RTVA Television a la Carte - bicentenary - La batalla de Bailen

RTVA report on events leading upto the Battle of Bailen, 1808

[Lt. Campers]

Napoleon's troops to march on Portugal

As regulars to Back to the Peninsular Wars will know - one of the
consequences of the Congress of Erfurt in Germany is, the French hope
to mount a second invasion of Portugal next year after turning around the
deteriorating military situation in Spain.
I have already posted a number of photos from the napoleonic Congress in
Erfurt which was the scene of high international diplomacy, power politics
and intrigue between Napoleon and his allies.

[Lt. Campers]

Back to the Peninsular Wars, events in Portugal and beyond

To set the scene, just click and minimise the following musical link
Theme Music

The Empire strikes back - Napoleon takes command in Spain

As regulars of Back to the Peninsular Wars are aware in September 1808,
Napoleon called upon his eastern european allies to bolster his hard pressed
troops in Spain, to put down the spanish revolt.
Following which Napoleon receives more troops for the Iberian peninsular as new
eastern european allies ( like Poland ) join the fray to crush the
spanish uprising.
Meanwhile with Sir Arthur Wellesley recalled to England to face a court
of inquiry into the controversial Convention of Cintra.
Command of the British army in the Peninsular passes to Sir John Moore,
a capable general who's seen service in the American War of Independance
and has been instrumental in establishing permanent light infantry
troops like the 95th Rifles.

Clickable map of the Iberian Peninsular during the Napoleonic Wars

Map of the Spanish Peninsular, 1808

The advance into Spain

Shortly after taking command on 6th October, Moore received orders to
march into Spain in support of the spanish uprising. So leaving a garrison
of 10,000 men in Lisbon, Moore marched into Spain with 20,000 troops that
was soon reinforced by a further 16,000 british troops marching down from
Corunna.
His mission to join up with Spanish forces that have taken Madrid from the
french.
Unfortunately for Moore the disorganised french ( which had met a series of
defeats since taking over the country ) were soon galvernised into action by
the arrival of Napoleon Bonaparte and the able Marshall Soult.
With fresh reinforcemants from France and his new eastern european empire,
they soon put paid to various spanish armies that had joined the revolt
leaving only Madrid to be retaken.

Napoleon crossing the Somosierra Pass

..

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The Battle of Somosierra - 30th November 1808

Napoleon after taking command of French forces in Spain, was kept informed of
the British advance on Madrid. Determined to strike first, Napoleon marches
his 40,000 men on Madrid but soon encounters a Spanish army barring
his path on the vital Somosierra Pass, 60 miles north of Madrid.
The army opposing the French under the command of General San Juan are a
mixed force of militia, reservists and regular troops still reeling from
earlier defeats. in all 21,000 men. But in order to cover the approaches to
Madrid, San Juan had to split his forces with 9000 men guarding the
Guadarrama pass, to the west and 3000 occupying an advance post at
Sepulvida. Leaving only 9000 men with 16 guns  to block the Somosierra Pass.


Somosierra pass with the spanish batteries in the foreground and
the French column marching into the pass in the middle distance

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Napoleon addressing the cavalry, as his infantry form line before
facing the spanish troops in the pass

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The battle begins with French infantry advancing against the spanish
troops

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The Battle of Somosierra on Spanish tv, including clip of the Polish cavalry
charge

Spanish TV report on Somosierra


Spanish online news channel - Elmundo report on the Battle of Somosierra
including a 3 minute video ( that can be shown full screen )

Elmundo TV report on Somosierra


Battle of Somosierra - video camara recording, with nice buildup to the
battle, leading to the charge of the Polish Chevaux-Legers

Somosierra 1808-2008	powered by Aeva

The Spanish had chosen the ground well with the terrain forming a perfect
defile into the pass. With the main road to Madrid running along the pass, this
was easily blocked by a series of three batteries comprising two guns each
placed at intervals along the road and protected by small earthworks.
On the summit, San Juan placed the remaining 10 cannons with 2000 militia.
On the evening of the 29th, the spanish brigade at Sepulvida repulsed
a french attack, inflicting heavy casulties.
The following morning Napoleon decided to advance his infantry directly
up the pass while small detachments crept along the flanks, exchanging
musket volleys with defenders, progress was slow as they neared the
first of spanish guns which halted the advance under a hail of cannon
fire.

Charge of the Polish light brigade

..

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Because the spanish position could not be easily outflanked by the French,
Napoleon was impatient to proceed, therefore he turned to the Polish
Chevaux-Legers of 450 horse ( commanded by Jan Kozietulski ) to
charge the Spanish batteries.
Whether Napoleon intended the Poles to charge the first battery or all three
batteries blocking the road is not clear. With fog screening their advance, the Poles
formed up in columns of 4 and started down the road, at first at the canter
before being ordered to charge with sabres drawn to cut down the
spanish gunners.
As they neared the spanish cannon, the Poles began to drop from the fire
from the spanish skirmishers before cannister fire shattered the front
ranks forcing the Poles to stall before their officers restored order and
continued the charge braking through the first battery before charging
pell-mell into the second and third spanish battery.
Despite their two senior Polish officers having their horses shot from under
them the Poles continued through the second and third battery before
confronting the fourth battery of 10 guns at the top of the pass.
Napoleon seeing the Poles break through the first battery with ease, sent
his personal escort and Guard Chasseurs-a-Cheval through the captured
batteries to assist the greatly depleted Polish Chevaux-Legers make a
final succesful assualt on the Spanish rear battery.

..

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The capture of the fourth battery broke the Spanish army defending the
pass, leaving the french to mop up the remaining spanish troops.
San Juan escaped with what was left of his troops to Madrid but it
soon fell to the French on 2nd December as the spainsh offered no
resistance.

The charge of the Polish Chevaux-Legers, as immortalized in Polish cinema

..

"Popioły" (Ashes) - Film Polski, Battle of Samosierra	powered by Aeva

Polish tv - on location at Somosierra

Naturally the fortunes of Napoleon's Polish brigade within the emperors Grand Army,
have been followed closely by several Polish television news channels in Warsaw.
Polish war correspondents accompanied the french army into Spain, as
they endeavour to crush the spanish uprising and bring Moores british
troops to battle.
Here we see a Polish documentary on the Battle of Somosierra, recording
details of the battle as the action unfolds, leading upto Napoleon's
decision to send in the Polish Chevaux-Legers.

BATTLE OF SOMOSIERRA	powered by Aeva

The losses suffered by the Polish Chevaux-Legers were great and has
gone down in Polish military history as a noble, vain glorious victory on a
par with the Charge of the Light Brigade.


..

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..

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Concluding part of the Sharpe theme music, please click & minimise.
Conclusion of the Sharpe theme music

[Lt. Campers]

The British retreat to Corunna - December 1808 to January 1809

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As you know following the arrival of Napoleon and Marshall Soults corps in
the Spanish peninsular. General Sir John Moores position at Salamanca was
becoming untenable.
With one spanish army after another suffering defeat, before being swept aside by
Napoleon, particulary at the Battle of Somosierra, resulting in the fall of
Madrid.
      Although Moore fought a successful skirmish against Soults cavalry at the Battle
of Sahagun on 21st December, he was determined not to find himself cut off and trapped
by any wily manuouvres from Napoleon, therefore on 24th December, he
ordered the army to retreat without delay to the north west port of Corunna.
        Napoleon having secured Madrid, soon followed but left the British pursuit to
Marshall Soult following a short battle at Astorga ( see below ) having been recalled to
Paris to face the threat of another possible war with Austria.

      
The retreat to Corunna

..

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      What started as an orderly retreat for the british, soon became a nightmare, as harsh winter
weather struck the british route home through the mountains of Galicia to Corunna.
The cruel weather and exhausting marches, interspersed by frequent skirmishes with the
pursuing French, left their toll on both man and beast.
The stragglers who couldn't keep up with the columns, raided spanish villages in search of
food and beer, only for them to be rounded up and herded like cattle when the
french dragoons arrived.

Highlander captured by French hussars

..

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French dragoons at the 200th anniversary Battle of Sahagun

..

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Battle of Astorga, December 1808

During the retreat to Corunna, Sir John Moore parted company with the
commander of the Spanish division in Spain, the Marquis da La Romana,
who after fighting a rear guard action with the british at
Castrillo Polvazares, near Astorga; fell back on the spanish city
of Leon.
Napoleon's army arrived outside Astorga on New Years Eve, 1808.
Astorga has already suffered deprivation, as a result of the spanish
uprising and many of its people had fled following an outbreak of typhus.
This would be Napoleon's final battle in Spain before returning to France
to deal with a possible threat from Austria. As you can see on the tv,
Napoleon's Polish troops are very much in evidence in his latest battles
in Spain, clearly identified by the square topped hats of the Polish infantry
and cavalry. The following battle sees a Polish infantry regiment in action
alongside the french.
Naturally the battle goes badly for the allies, being insufficient in numbers
and pitted against Napoleons best troops. The French push the allies back
into the streets of Astorga where the fighting is highlighted by a number of
street battles before the allies finally take refuge in a big building
dominating Astorga's central plaza.
Here the french move their big cannons into the Plaza mayor square and
start to bombard the allied garrison into submission, after a long fight. The
garrison surrenders following a parley with the french.

TV camaras were on hand to record the Battle of Astorga

Battle of Astorga on TV

View of the battle from Napoleon's position behind the French line,
with his troops pushing forward towards town, as darkness falls

Battle of Astorga, part1	powered by Aeva

Battle of Astorga, part2	powered by Aeva

French infantry moving steadily down the main street, firing volleys at
british and spanish troops defending the town

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Spanish troops returning fire

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French troops clash with allied troops in the streets of Astorga

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View of british and spanish soldiers garrisoning the Plaza's main
building

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Allied troops crouching behind the barricade, protecting the Plaza garrison

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Cannons are brought to bear on allied troops defending the Plaza

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French cannon opens fire

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A ceasefire is called as the isolated garrison of british and spanish troops,
defending the Plaza, discuss terms for their surrender

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With the garrison surrendering and the French securing the town, Napoleon enters Astorga

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Napoleon and his most senior officers are quartered in the best house in
town, where they spend the night accessing the strategic situation

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The following day sees Marshall Soult with Napoleon's best troops on parade to
salute the mayor of Astorga, as he inspects the troops following their
victory yesterday.

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Back to the Peninsular Wars, events in Portugal and beyond

Marshall Soult's french troops marching out of Astorga that evening,
in pursuit of the british

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Britsh and spanish troops fighting to hold back the French at one of the many river
crossings, during the retreat to Corunna

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       Nevertheless the british rear guard cavalry of hussars and the Kings German Legion
( under Henry, Lord Paget ) kept the French away from the retreating
British columns.
In order for Moores bedraggled army to arrive safely in Corunna where the
Royal Navy would be waiting to evacuate them to England.
Even so Soult refuses to give up the chase and arrives outside
the city just as the rear columns of the British army enter Corunna.

       Thus setting the scene for the Dunkirk of the Napoleonic Wars.

[Lt. Campers]

Battle of Corunna Jan 1809  - commemorative events

For those readers who have been following the commemorative events
in Spain and Portugal - heres the itinerary of this weeks commemorations
taking place in and around the Spanish port of Corunna.
As the Expatua forum knows - Like a Napoleonic war correspondent, I've
been keeping you abreast of latest developments without much detail of
the commemorative events taking place in Back to the Peninsular Wars.
So to make amends - heres the details with times, dates and places.


Daily Mail - looks back at Britain's unsung hero at Corunna

The unsung hero of the Peninsular War


In addition to the anniversary events organised by the spanish the
british are also organising events in Spain to compliment the anniversary
commemorations. Note individual events could be subject to change.


95th Rifles death march to Corunna - currently taking place

A couple of soldiers 95th Rifles & 79th highland regt, James & Vince will be marching over
170 miles from Astorga to La Corunna, following in the footsteps of Sir John Moore.
The re-enactors will be dressed in period uniforms.
Amoungst the soldiers of the 95th Rifles re-enactment regiment is a
descendant of one of the soldiers in Moores army.
Their is a charitable as well as historic interest in this yomp through the
Galacian mountains, as the soldiers are raising money for the
Rainbow Trust Childrens Charity.

Riflemen Law keeping a sharp lookout for French cavalry on the
road to Corunna

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Courtesy of 200th anniversary website

The expoits of Rifleman Law and Private James Hinton of the Cameron
highlanders as they retrace Moores retreat to Corunna, 200 years later

http://the79thcameronhighlanders.co.uk/200th_anniversary_report.htm

Last update was they had passed the village of Rabanal on the 6th where
they were greeted by locals and treated to free food and beer; how very different
from their reception 200 years ago. For the very latest news, check out the
200th anniversary website.

For the latest news on James and Vinces progress - check the following
forum:

http://www.pilgrimage-to-santiago.com/board/miscellaneous-topics/topic1991.html

They started out on the 2nd Jaunary at Astorga and will enter the city of Corunna
almost 200 years to the day, on the 15th January 2009.

Friday January 16th

Wreath laying at the church of San Vicente in the Village of Elvina
Wreath laying at Sir John Moore's tomb in the San Carlos gardens.

Saturday January 17th

Speech at the monument to General Portier in the Plaza de Espana
Wreath laying at the "Casa de Genaro Fontenia, where Sir John Moore actually fell,
followed by a short march to Maria Pita sq.
Small scale recreation of the Battle in Maria Pita Sq.
(Hopefully) The embarkation of troops onto a Royal Navy ship.

The walkers plan is to enter the city on the 14th January (15th extension day)
with a parade of walkers and all re-enactors (soldiers, women and children) in the
main square.

British 42nd highlanders storm a french position at Corunna

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Spanish program of events,  commemorating the 200th anniversary
of the Battle of Corunna 1809

Tuesday, 13th to Wednesday 14th January

Corunna conferences, by leading lecturers, on the Spanish War of
Independence and the Battle of Corunna 1809. Possible venues:
Foundation Caixa Galicia or Sporting Club Casino of Corunna.

Thursday 15th January

Possible concert of the Music of the Real Guard or the Music of
Immemorial of the King of the Headquarters of Ejercito in Madrid,
dedicated to the Battle of the Corunna and the War of Independence,
with musical pieces of centuries XVIII and XIX.
Venue: Rosalía theater or Palace of Opera.  

Friday 16th January

11:45 am Floral offering before the memorial plate to the lost naval ship
HMS SERPENT, by the members of the diplomatic body of the Embassy of
Great Britain, accompanied by civilian authorities and military.
Venue: Garden Bastion of San Carlos.

12 midday Inauguration of two mosaics of Talavera, with two illustrations,
of Battle of Corunna and the Death of General Sir John Moore, placing
of a commemorative plaque of the Bicentennial in charge of the Historical
Association Cultural.

12:15 am Floral offerings of the City council of Corunna jointly with the
members of the diplomatic body of the Embassy of Great Britain, civilian
authorities and military, organizing committee, Corridor of honor of a unit
of British Engineers and demolition party of the Military police of the
Headquarters of the Operative Logistic Force to present an Honour guard
of the Honest Militia of Corunna.
The national anthems of Great Britain, France and Spain, played by the
Military Band of British Engineers or the Military Music of the Headquarters
of the Operative Logistic Force, before the Tomb of General Sir John Moore,
in Garden-Bastion of San Carlos.

12:45 hrs Parade from the Garden of San Carlos of the British and
Spanish troops, to the Place of Maria Toots, military parade in the place,
magazine of the troops by the present authorities. Finalizing this shutdown,
exit in the direction of the quarter of Atocha.

13:00 hrs Inauguration of the Philatelic Exhibition dedicated to the
Bicentennial of Batalla of Corunna 1809-2009, with documents
of all the French interventions in Spain betwwen 1673 & 1828.
Venue:  The exhibition hall of the Municipal Palace from the 16th
to the 25 of January of 2009.

13:30 hrs  Official reception to Welcome to the British and French ambassors to
Spain, civilian authorities and military, of Exc. Mr. D. Javier Losada de Aspiazu,
Mayor of the city of Corunna, in the noble plant of the Municipal Palace
(Place of Maria Toots nº 1). Deliveries of the Gold medals of Batalla of Corunna 1809

Saturday 17th January

11:30 am Inauguration of the commemorative plaque, in memory of Brigadier general
Robert Anstruther, who comprised of the British reserve, to the control of
20º regiment, 1º battalion of 52º and 1º battalion of 95º.
It died the 14 of January and to the Lieutenant Colonel John Mackenzie of 5º Rg. of
Infantry who fell during the retreat and Battle of Corunna 1809.
Venue: Church of San Vicente de Elvira

12:20hrs: Official visit to the commemorative plaques of the battle of Corunna, in memory
of the visit realised by its Heights by the Prince of Wales, Eduardo and
prince, Jorge, father of Reina of England, Isabel II. Next, Inauguration of
the tourist points of signaling of Batalla of Corunna.
1809-2009. (The one of the Church of Elvira). Highway of Zapateira-Rock of the Galiacho.

13:15 hrs:  Floral offering of the Napoleonic Associations in the place where
once it was the House of Genaro Fontenla

18:00 hrs:  Parade of the Recreadores British, French and Spanish and
Honor guard of the City council of Corunna, from the Great Corner by the
Real Street. Water irrigation. Offering before the pebetero of Freedom.

18:30 hrs: Demonstration on the part of the Napoleonic Associations and
small recreation of Battle in the Place of Maria Toots, by the members of
the Napoleonic Association.

Monday 18th January

11:00 Guided tour of the Naploeonic battlefield

13:00 hrs Historical recreation of a battle on the Bridge of the Town.

Johnny has gone for a Soldier	powered by Aeva

[Lt. Campers]

British troops arrive in Corunna, tired and weary

Wednesday saw Moores army entering the city port of Corunna after
a long and exhausting march - the british accompanied by some of their
spanish and portuguese allies, had finally made it to Corunna.
Meanwhile hot on their heels, Soults advance guard of French
hussars can be seen on the hills overlooking the city, reconnoitering
the british position.
In the harbour british royal navy ships have gathered awaiting the
arrival of transport vessels on the 14th Jan, before commencing the
embarkation of british troops.

British hussars enter Corunna

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Following the cavalry comes the infantry, still in good spirits despite
the long and gruelling march

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With the french gathering beyond the city gates, General Sir John Moore
is anxious to restore order amoungst the men - with a showdown with Marshall
Soult inevietable if the troops are to be evacuated unmolested by the French.

British officers reviewing the troops in the city square

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The French army can be seen taking up positions on the hill plains
overlooking Corunna harbour.

French cavalry reconnoitering the british positions

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Marshall Soult addressing his troops as they form up outside Corunna

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[Lt. Campers]

Battle of Corunna January 16th 1809

Just as the british transport vessels arrive in Corunna harbour on 14th
January, Soults artillery train begins to appear on the hill plains
overlooking Corunna following the long march from Madrid.
The british soon start evacuating the sick and the wounded with the
first of the cannon going on board the transports by wednesday evening.

Clickable map of the French and British postions at Corunna

British and French positions at Corruna

Clickable historical map of the French and British postions at Corunna

Clickable map of Corruna
 
Moore decides to deploy his army, now only 14,500 men strong by
placing the main body of the army on a ridge astride the road to
Corunna between the village of Elvina and the sea.

Back to the Peninsular Wars, events in Portugal and beyond

With the French now forming up in large numbers to the south, Moore
placed a number of outposts backed up by skirmishers to slow down
down the approach of the French.
On the 15th January French troops moving forward, pushed back the
British outposts on the higher range and gradually took up position there.
Soult sited his 11 heavy guns upon the rocky outcrop from where they
would be able to fire upon the British right. The task was very difficult
and it was night before the guns had been dragged into position.

As day broke on the morning of the 16th January. The French were in
position on the heights and all through the morning both armies observed
each across the valley between them. Moore planned to continue with the
embarkation later that day if Soult did not attack. By afternoon Moore
considered an attack unlikely and he ordered the first divisions to make
their way to the port, the rest of the army would follow at dusk, but shortly
after about 2pm, the French attacked.

Marshall Soults, french army deployed ready for battle outside Corunna

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Soult's plan was to move against the strongly-placed British infantry of the
left and centre in order to contain it while the infantry division of Mermet
attacked the more vulnerable British right above the village of Elvina.
The cavalry was deployed further west near the more open country
leading to Corunna. If the attacks succeeded they could seize the western
end of the British lines and push on to cut off the bulk of the army from
Corunna.

British lines before the village of Elvina facing the French

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Back to the Peninsular Wars, events in Portugal and beyond

Mermet’s infantry advanced quickly and soon pushed the British picquets
from Elvina and attacked the heights beyond. At the same time a French
brigade pushed up the valley on the British right in an attempt to turn
their flank.

French skirmishers move forward, attacking the british flank with french
artillery in the background

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The fiercest fighting took place in and around Elvina as the possession of
the village changed hands several times, and the British suffered
particularly from the fire of the heavy artillery on the heights opposite.
Moore remained in this area to direct the battle ordering one regiment to
fire down upon the flank of the French column that was attempting the
turning movement and calling up the reserve to meet it.

French troops storm the village of Elvina

French troops preparing to attack the british line

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French storm the british lines, taking the cannon

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French infantry raise the tricolour as they take the village

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The British commander had just rallied the 42nd regiment[7] that had
fallen back from Elvina when he was struck by a cannonball and fell
mortally wounded. For a time the British were without a commander,
which hampered attempts at a counter attack in this crucial sector,
but the fighting continued unabated.

British General and his staff officers observing the French attack

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Further west the French cavalry attempted to push forward as part of the
flank attack but they were hampered by the rough terrain and eventually
driven back by the advance of the British reserves.

French cavalry attack with infantry moving steadily forward against
the british right flank

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Night brought an end to the fighting by which time the French had been
repulsed and had returned to their original positions with both sides
holding pretty much the same ground as they had before the fight.

After the battle

Command of the British army had passed to General Hope who decided to
proceed with the embarkation as had been the original plan. At around
9pm the British began to silently withdraw from their lines, leaving behind
strong picquets who maintained watch-fires throughout the night.

At daybreak on the 17th January the picquets were withdrawn behind the
rearguard and went aboard ship; by morning most of the army had
embarked.
Once Soult had noticed that the British had left the ridge he posted six
guns on the heights above the southern end of the bay and by midday
they were were able fire upon the outlying ships. This caused panic
amongst some of the transports until the battery was silenced by fire
from the warships.

Finally, on the 18th January, the British rearguard embarked, the small
Spanish garrison under General Alcedo faithfully holding the citadel until
the fleet was well out to sea.

The Battle of Corunna - on video

Battle of Corruna, video	powered by Aeva

The Battle of Corunna on Spanish tv

Battle of Corruna on Spanish TV	powered by Aeva

[Lt. Campers]

Soult's french troops storm the bridge into Corunna

One final attempt to catch the british rearguard unawares on sunday, was to attack the bridge
into the city of Corunna, this being defended by spanish troops backed up
by a small detachment of british troops left behind from the withdrawl.
As the rest of the british rearguard started to board the harbour transports,
Soult begins an all out assualt on the bridge.

French cannon opens fire on british & spanish troops defending the bridge

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British officer encouraging the brave men defending the bridge

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Throwing his infantry forward, the french succeed in throwing back the spanish troops
defending the bridge, tearing down their makeshift blockade. But soon come under
heavy fire from the british platoon, backed up by spanish militia & partisans
snipping at the french, from either side of the bridge.

French cavalry with swords drawn, gallop across the bridge

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Determined to break the impasse, Soult sends for his hussars who charge across the bridge,
although beaten back at first, the french eventually carry the day; surrounding
the british detachment, while scattering the militia into the backstreets of Corunna.
With the bridge secure, Soult moves his men quickly into Corunna and the all important
harbour, only to find the british had all gone.
With only the spanish garrison left holding out in the citadel, Soult calls upon its commander
to surrender, only to be met by defiance from the spanish.

Therefore Soult moves his cannon into the city and starts to bombard the Spanish citadel,
that very evening, the spanish resisting for as long as possible until the remaining british
ships are well out to sea.

The French assualt on the spanish bridge into Corunna

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French attacking the bridge	powered by Aeva

Note - you can switch the film to high quality, for a better picture.

French cannon firing on the Spanish citadel in Corunna

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