What was the Fire of Moscow in 1812, and during what period did it occur?

The Fire of Moscow in 1812 was a devastating event that occurred from September 14 to September 18, during the French occupation of the city following the Battle of Borodino. The fire all but destroyed the city, significantly impacting Napoleon's campaign in Russia.

What were the dates of the Fire of Moscow and its location?

The Fire of Moscow took place from September 14 to September 18, 1812, in the city of Moscow within the Russian Empire.

What was the reported outcome of the Fire of Moscow in terms of destruction?

The fire resulted in the destruction of 6,496 out of 9,151 residential buildings, including 6,584 wooden and 2,567 stone houses. Additionally, 122 out of 329 churches were destroyed.

What does the painting 'Fire of Moscow' by Alexander Smirnov depict?

The painting 'Fire of Moscow' by Alexander Smirnov, created in 1813, visually represents the catastrophic fire that engulfed the city during Napoleon's occupation.

How does the 1817 map illustrate the impact of the fire on Moscow?

The 1817 map visually indicates the areas of Moscow that were destroyed by the fire, with these regions marked in red, providing a geographical representation of the disaster's extent.

What strategy did Russian forces employ before the French entered Moscow?

Prior to the French entry into Moscow, Russian troops and most civilians had abandoned the city. The Russian military, under Kutuzov, utilized a scorched earth strategy, which involved burning Moscow's resources to weaken the French army.

Who is often considered responsible for organizing the destruction of Moscow to hinder the French army?

Count Fyodor Rostopchin, the Moscow military governor, is often considered responsible for organizing the destruction of the former Russian capital. His actions were part of a strategy to make the city less tenable for Napoleon's forces.

What was the approximate civilian population of Moscow at the start of 1812?

At the beginning of 1812, Moscow had an estimated population of around 270,184 inhabitants, according to a contemporary police survey.

How many civilians and Russian soldiers remained in Moscow when the French arrived?

When the French troops entered Moscow, the number of civilians who chose to remain was estimated to be between 6,200 and 10,000. Additionally, there were between 10,000 and 15,000 sick or wounded Russian soldiers left in the city.

What orders did Count Rostopchin allegedly give before leaving Moscow regarding the city's fate?

Before departing Moscow, Count Rostopchin reportedly gave orders to the head of police and released convicts to set fire to the Kremlin and major public buildings, including churches and monasteries.

What role did Germaine de Staël attribute to Rostopchin concerning the fire?

Germaine de Staël, who corresponded with Kutuzov, suggested that Rostopchin ordered his own mansions to be set on fire to prevent any French soldiers from lodging in them, indicating a deliberate act of destruction.

According to Louise Fusil, where did the fire originate?

The French actress Louise Fusil, who was residing in Moscow at the time, wrote in her memoirs that the fire started on Petrovka Street.

What is the prevailing historical view on the initial cause of the Moscow fires?

The majority of historians attribute the initial fires in Moscow to the Russian strategy of scorched earth, implemented to deny resources and shelter to the invading French army.

What happened to the Moscow police officer caught attempting to set the Kremlin ablaze?

A Moscow police officer was apprehended while trying to set fire to the Kremlin. Upon admitting he had orders to burn the city, he was immediately bayonetted to death by guardsmen on Napoleon's orders.

How did Napoleon react to the fire, and what term did he use for the Russian people?

Napoleon was deeply disturbed and intimidated by the fire, viewing it as a sign of Russian resolve. He described the Russians as 'Scythians' and was horrified by their willingness to destroy their own city, noting that stone structures like palaces and churches largely survived.

What characteristic of Moscow's buildings contributed to the rapid spread of the fire?

The rapid spread of the fire was significantly aided by the fact that most buildings in Moscow were constructed primarily of wood, with the exception of structures in the German Quarter.

What was the condition of Moscow's fire-fighting capabilities prior to the fire?

Moscow's fire brigade equipment had been either removed or destroyed on Rostopchin's orders before the fire, rendering the city's official firefighting capacity ineffective.

How far could the burning of Moscow be seen?

The conflagration of Moscow was reportedly visible from a distance of up to 215 kilometers (approximately 133 miles).

What alternative perspective on the fire's cause is presented in Leo Tolstoy's 'War and Peace'?

In 'War and Peace,' Leo Tolstoy suggests that the fire was not intentionally set by either side but was a natural consequence of leaving a largely wooden, deserted city to invading troops. He posits that everyday activities like cooking and smoking, combined with the lack of firefighting, could have easily escalated into a city-wide blaze.

What major battle preceded the French army's entry into Moscow in 1812?

The Battle of Borodino, fought on September 7, 1812, preceded the French army's occupation of Moscow.

When did the Russian army begin its retreat eastward from the Borodino battlefield?

The Russian army commenced its retreat eastward from Borodino on September 8, 1812.

Where was the main Russian army quartered on September 10, 1812?

On September 10, 1812, the main quarter of the Russian army was located at Bolshiye Vyazyomy.

What significant military promotion did Kutuzov receive on September 11, 1812?

On September 11, 1812, Tsar Alexander I signed a document promoting Kutuzov to the rank of General Field Marshal, the highest military rank.

What critical decision did the Russian military council make on September 13, 1812?

On September 13, 1812, the Russian military council convened at Fili and agreed to abandon Moscow without a fight, a decision influenced by the risks involved.

On what date did the Russian army pass through Moscow during their retreat?

The Russian army marched through Moscow on September 14, 1812, after crossing the Moskva river near Sparrow Hills, continuing their retreat towards Ryazan.

When did Napoleon arrive at Poklonnaya Hill and witness the initial fires in Moscow?

Napoleon arrived at Poklonnaya Hill on September 14, 1812, and the first fires in Moscow broke out that evening.

What event marked Napoleon's arrival within the Kremlin on September 15, 1812?

On September 15, 1812, Napoleon arrived at the Kremlin, the same day that more wind fanned the massive fires throughout the city.

Where did Napoleon relocate on September 16, 1812, due to the fire's proximity to the Kremlin?

On September 16, 1812, Napoleon moved from the Kremlin to the suburban Petrovsky Palace, which was unoccupied, as the firestorm threatened the Kremlin itself.

What was the fate of individuals caught setting fires in Moscow, according to Sergeant Bourgogne?

Sergeant Adrien Bourgogne reported that orders were given to shoot anyone found setting fire to houses, and this order was carried out immediately, with some incendiaries being shot and hung from trees in a place the soldiers called the 'Place des Pendus'.

By what date had the fire significantly subsided, and when did Napoleon return to the Kremlin?

The fire had largely subsided by September 18, 1812, allowing Napoleon to return to the Kremlin as the rain began to fall.

What strategic maneuver did Kutuzov execute on September 19, 1812, concerning the French army's movements?

On September 19, 1812, Kutuzov changed direction and moved his army west towards Tarutino, positioning himself to better protect his forces and control key roads, while Murat lost sight of the Russian army.

What peace overture did Napoleon make on September 20, 1812?

On September 20, 1812, Napoleon dispatched a message to the Tsar, who was in Saint Petersburg, proposing peace terms.

What was the condition of the French army by September 27, 1812, regarding weather and supplies?

By September 27, 1812, the French army was suffering from famine and the cold, experiencing the first snowfall of the season, which exacerbated their already difficult conditions.

What engagement occurred on October 18, 1812, affecting Murat's cavalry?

On October 18, 1812, Murat's camp was surprised by an attack led by Bennigsen, known as the Battle of Winkovo. Murat lost 12 guns, 3,000 men, and 20 baggage carts in this engagement.

When did the French army officially evacuate Moscow?

After staying in Moscow for 36 days, the French army, numbering around 108,000 soldiers, began its evacuation on October 19, 1812.

What was Napoleon's initial objective after leaving Moscow, and what ultimately happened?

After leaving Moscow, Napoleon's goal was to maneuver around Kutuzov's army. However, on October 24, he was stopped at Maloyaroslavets on his intended route and was forced to retreat north on October 26.

What was the approximate number of stone and wooden structures in Moscow before the fire?

Before the fire in 1812, Moscow contained approximately 4,000 stone structures and 8,000 wooden houses.

What proportion of Moscow's buildings and churches reportedly survived the fire?

After the fires, only about 200 stone buildings and around 500 wooden houses remained. Nearly half of Moscow's churches also survived, though most sustained some damage.

What reason is suggested for the survival of many churches during the fire?

The survival of many churches is attributed to their construction materials, and the fact that altar implements and other paraphernalia made of precious metals attracted looters, diverting some attention from the structures themselves.

How did Napoleon's forces handle church silver found in Moscow?

Napoleon ordered a systematic search for church silver, which was then collected and added to his war chest, the mobile treasury.

What contrasting accounts exist regarding the treatment of Moscow's remaining population by the French?

While some Russian sources claim the French destroyed monuments, used churches as stables, murdered priests, and raped nuns, Napoleon is also noted for personally ensuring sufficient food supplies were delivered to feed all remaining civilians, regardless of age or sex.

What is General Marcellin Marbot's perspective on the fire's role in the campaign's failure?

General Marcellin Marbot argued that the assertion that the fire of Moscow was the principal cause of the campaign's failure is contestable. He noted that enough houses, palaces, churches, and barracks remained to accommodate the entire French army for a month.

Who were the key figures overseeing Moscow's reconstruction after the fire?

The reconstruction of Moscow after the fire was managed by military governors Alexander Tormasov (1814-1819) and Dmitry Golitsyn (1820-ca. 1840).

How long did the rebuilding process for Moscow take after the 1812 fire?

The process of rebuilding Moscow after the fire was gradual and extended over a decade, lasting well into the period of military governorships of Alexander Tormasov and Dmitry Golitsyn.

What architectural style is represented by the Vasily Pushkin house, rebuilt after the fire?

The Vasily Pushkin house is cited as a typical example of the cheap wooden architecture prevalent in the 1810s, often featuring neoclassical trim, and was rebuilt following the fire.

In which literary work does Leo Tolstoy detail the events of the Fire of Moscow?

Leo Tolstoy vividly describes the occupation and fire of Moscow in his renowned novel, 'War and Peace,' specifically within Book XI.

What historical perspective does Tolstoy challenge in 'War and Peace' regarding the abandonment of Moscow?

In 'War and Peace,' Tolstoy challenges the 'great man' theory of history, critiquing the idea that events like the army's abandonment of Moscow were solely due to the actions of a single commander like Kutuzov, instead emphasizing the complexity of historical causality.

Which French actress's memoirs provide eyewitness accounts of the fire and retreat?

Louise Fusil, a French actress who had lived in Russia for six years, witnessed the fire and described the subsequent retreat in her memoirs.

What Soviet film from 1965-1967 adapted Tolstoy's 'War and Peace' and depicted the fire?

The 1965-1967 Soviet film adaptation of 'War and Peace' depicted the fire of Moscow, with the film crew planning the scenes meticulously over ten months and utilizing six ground cameras and helicopter filming.

In which films has the Fire of Moscow been visually represented?

The Fire of Moscow has been depicted in the 1955 film 'Napoleon' and the more recent 2023 film 'Napoleon'.

What is the significance of the commemorative bandana mentioned in the timeline?

The commemorative bandana, printed in England, depicts the 'Conflagration of Moscow Seen from the Kremlin, on the entrance of the French Army, the 14th of Sept 1812,' serving as a visual record of the event.

Fire Of Moscow 1812 Wiki: The Great Conflagration: Moscow's Fiery Trial of 1812

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Background

The City's Fate

During the French occupation of Moscow, a devastating fire raged from September 14 to 18, 1812, virtually destroying the city. Russian troops and most civilians had evacuated Moscow on September 14, 1812, just before Napoleon's forces entered following the Battle of Borodino. The city's military governor, Count Fyodor Rostopchin, is often implicated in orchestrating the destruction as a scorched-earth tactic to deny resources to the invading French army.

Strategic Retreat

Following a strategy of attrition warfare against Napoleon, Russian forces under Kutuzov employed scorched-earth tactics. This included burning Moscow's resources to weaken the French army. Guerilla warfare by Cossacks and peasant actions against French foraging further strained Napoleon's supply lines. On October 19, 1812, facing dwindling provisions and the onset of winter, the French army abandoned the city.

A Deserted Capital

Moscow, normally a populous city with over 270,000 inhabitants, was largely deserted by the time the French arrived. Only an estimated 6,200 to 10,000 civilians remained, along with 10,000 to 15,000 wounded Russian soldiers. This reduced population meant that while the fire was catastrophic, there was sufficient space for the French army to occupy the remaining structures.

Causes of the Fire

Scorched Earth Policy

A primary theory attributes the fire to a deliberate Russian scorched-earth strategy, allegedly ordered by Governor Rostopchin. Reports suggest orders were given to set fire to the city, including major public buildings, churches, and monasteries, to prevent their use by the French. While Rostopchin's direct role is debated, the strategy aimed to deny the enemy any advantage.

Accidental Spread

An alternative perspective, notably presented by Leo Tolstoy in "War and Peace," suggests the fire was not intentionally set but rather a consequence of the city's largely wooden construction and the presence of an invading army. Fires, common even in peacetime due to soldiers' activities like smoking and cooking, could have easily spread uncontrollably without an active fire brigade (whose equipment had been removed or destroyed on Rostopchin's orders).

Incendiaries

There were reports of captured individuals attempting to set fires, including an incident where a police officer was caught trying to ignite the Kremlin. This officer, interrogated by Napoleon, allegedly confessed to orders to burn the city and was subsequently executed. These accounts contribute to the complexity of determining the exact origins and extent of deliberate arson.

Timeline of Events

September 14, 1812

Russian army retreats through Moscow. Napoleon arrives at Poklonnaya Hill. French vanguard enters the city, leaving inhabitants time to depart. First fires reported in the evening.

September 15-16, 1812

Massive fires spread rapidly, fueled by wind. Napoleon enters the Kremlin. The firestorm threatens the Kremlin, prompting Napoleon to relocate to Petrovsky Palace.

September 18, 1812

The fire subsides after destroying three-quarters of the city. Napoleon returns to the Kremlin as rain begins.

October 19, 1812

The French army, numbering around 108,000, begins its withdrawal from Moscow.

Extent of the Disaster

Devastation Statistics

The fire resulted in the destruction of 6,496 out of 9,151 residential buildings. This included 6,584 wooden and 2,567 stone houses. Of Moscow's 329 churches, 122 were destroyed. While many stone structures, including churches, survived the flames, they often suffered damage or looting.

Visibility and Impact

The scale of the conflagration was immense, with reports indicating the burning of Moscow was visible from distances up to 215 km (133 miles) away. The destruction profoundly impacted Napoleon, who viewed it as a sign of Russian resolve and barbarity.

Historical Debate

While deliberate arson by the Russians is a prominent theory, the extent of intentionality versus accidental spread remains a subject of historical debate. Some accounts suggest that even with intentional fires, the lack of firefighting resources and the city's construction contributed significantly to the disaster's scale.

Reconstruction

A Gradual Process

The rebuilding of Moscow after the fire was a gradual process that spanned over a decade. Under military governors Alexander Tormasov (1814–1819) and Dmitry Golitsyn (1820–ca. 1840), the city was slowly reconstructed. Some 18th-century buildings were rebuilt according to original plans, while many new structures reflected the architectural styles of the era.

Architectural Influences

The reconstruction efforts saw the incorporation of neoclassical designs, with many wooden houses featuring neoclassical trim. The influence of architects like William Hastie, a Scottish architect, played a role in Moscow's town planning and reconstruction, shaping the city's appearance in the post-fire era.

In Culture

Literary Depictions

The Fire of Moscow is famously depicted in Leo Tolstoy's epic novel "War and Peace," where it serves as a pivotal event reflecting the resilience and determination of the Russian spirit. Tolstoy explores themes of historical causality and the role of individuals versus broader societal forces.

Cinematic Portrayals

The event has been adapted into numerous films, including the 1965–67 Soviet epic "War and Peace," which meticulously recreated the fires. More recent cinematic interpretations include the 1955 film "Napoleon" and the 2023 film "Napoleon," further cementing the fire's place in popular historical consciousness.

Artistic Representations

Artists like Alexander Smirnov captured the dramatic scenes of the fire in paintings, such as his 1813 work depicting the event. Historical maps, like an 1817 map showing destroyed areas in red, and 19th-century caricatures also serve as cultural artifacts reflecting the impact and interpretation of the fire.

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References

Haythornthwaite 2012, pp. 40â72, The Battle of Borodino.

Mikaberidze 2014, pp. 96â111, Chapter 6: The Great Conflagration.

Mikaberidze 2014, pp. 68â95, Chapter 5: 'And Moscow, Mighty City, Blaze!'.

Mikaberidze 2014, pp. 145â165, Chapter 8: 'By Accident or Malice?' Who Burned Moscow.

Chandler 2009, pp. 749â766, 68. War Plans and Preparations (Part Thirteen. The Road to Moscow).

Chandler 2009, pp. 813â822, 71. Precarious Position (Part Fourteen. Retreat).

Caulaincourt 1935, p. 118, VI. The Fire.

Vionnet 2013, pp. 73â97, 12. The Great Fire.

Austin 2012, pp. 26â28, Chapter 1: "Fire! Fire!".

Ludwig 1927, p. 408, Book Four: The Sea.

Ludwig 1927, p. 430, Book Four: The Sea.

"Surgical memoirs of the campaigns of Russia, Germany, and France", pp. 43â45

Russia: A Short History by Abraham Ascher

Haythornthwaite 2012, p. 74, The End of the Campaign.

Wilson 2013, p. 159, Uncandid Despatch of Kutusow.

Lieven 2009, pp. 210â211, 5. The Retreat.

Austin 2012, pp. 69â70, Chapter 4: A Desconsolate Advance Guard.

Austin 2012, p. 223, Chapter 13: "That's Enough, Gentlemen. I Shall Decide".

Zamoyski 2004, p. 300, 14. Hollow Triumph.

Bourgogne 1899, p. 31, Chapter II. The Fire at Moscow.

Zamoyski 2004, p. 304, 14. Hollow Triumph.

Wilson 2013, p. 170, Position of the Russian Army on the road to Kalouga.

Wilson 2013, p. 175, Manoeuvres of hostile armies.

Wilson 2013, p. 177, Manoeuvres of the hostile armies.

1812: Napoleon in Moscow by Paul Britten Austin

Austin 2012, p. 73, Chapter 4: A Desconsolate Advance Guard.

Austin 2012, p. 85, Chapter 5: Settling in for the Winter.

A Dutch officer of the 33rd Light Infantry Regiment, Russia 1812

F.H.A. Sabron (1910) Geschiedenis van het 33e regiment Lichte Infanterie (het Oud-Hollandsche 3e regiment Jagers) onder Keizer Napoleon I, p. 64

Lieven 2009, p. 214, 5. The Retreat.

Lieven 2009, p. 252, 6. Borodino and the Fall of Moscow.

Wilson 2013, p. 203, Letter of reproof from Alexander to Kutusow.

Lieven 2009, p. 253, 6. Borodino and the Fall of Moscow.

Lieven 2009, p. 296, 7. The Home Front in 1812.

Austin 2012, p. 79, Chapter 4: A Desconsolate Advance Guard.

Austin 2012, p. 93, Chapter 5: Settling in for the Winter.

Austin 2012, p. 102, Chapter 6: Marauding Parties.

Austin 2012, p. 104, Chapter 7: Lovely Autumn Weather.

Austin 2012, p. 152, Chapter 8: A Lethal Truce.

Austin 2012, p. 174, Chapter 10: Battle at Waterloo.

Wilson 2013, p. 181, Contemplated treachery of Kutusow.

Austin 2012, pp. 141â142, Chapter 8: A Lethal Truce.

Wilson 2013, pp. 178â180, Patriotism of Rostopchin.

Austin 2012, pp. 107â108, Chapter 7: Lovely Autumn Weather.

Austin 2012, p. 123, Chapter 8: A Lethal Truce.

Austin 2012, p. 114, Chapter 7: Lovely Autumn Weather.

Austin 2012, p. 202, Chapter 12: "Where Our Conquest of the World Ended".

Wilson 2013, p. 209, Combat of Czenicznia and brilliant conduct of Murat.

Marbot 1913, p. 602, Vol. II, Chapter LXXIV.

A full list of references for this article are available at the Fire of Moscow (1812) Wikipedia page

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This is not historical advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional historical research or consultation. Always refer to primary sources and scholarly works for definitive accounts of historical events.

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Moscow's Inferno

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Background 📜

🔥 The City's Fate

⚔️ Strategic Retreat

🏠 A Deserted Capital

Causes of the Fire ❓

🔥 Scorched Earth Policy

🔥 Accidental Spread

🔥 Incendiaries

Timeline of Events 🗓️

📅 September 14, 1812

🔥 September 15-16, 1812

💨 September 18, 1812

🚶 October 19, 1812

Extent of the Disaster 📊

🏚️ Devastation Statistics

🔥 Visibility and Impact

🤔 Historical Debate

Reconstruction 🏗️

rebuilding A Gradual Process

🏛️ Architectural Influences

In Culture 🎭

📖 Literary Depictions

🎬 Cinematic Portrayals

🎨 Artistic Representations

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

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References

📜 References

Feedback & Support 👍

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Background

The City's Fate

Strategic Retreat

A Deserted Capital

Causes of the Fire

Scorched Earth Policy

Accidental Spread

Incendiaries

Timeline of Events

September 14, 1812

September 15-16, 1812

September 18, 1812

October 19, 1812

Extent of the Disaster

Devastation Statistics

Visibility and Impact

Historical Debate

Reconstruction

A Gradual Process

Architectural Influences

In Culture

Literary Depictions

Cinematic Portrayals

Artistic Representations

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice