The Battle of Austerlitz, also known as the Battle of the Three Emperors, was fought on December 2, 1805, near Austerlitz in Moravia (modern-day Czech Republic). This battle is considered one of Napoleon Bonaparte's greatest victories and is often cited as a tactical masterpiece in military history.
Background
The Battle
- Date: December 2, 1805
- Location: Austerlitz, Moravia
- Commanders:
- Strength:
- French: Approximately 73,000 troops
- Allied (Russian and Austrian): Approximately 85,000 troops
- Outcome:
- Decisive French victory
- Austria was forced to leave the coalition, signing the Treaty of Pressburg
- Significant losses for the allied forces, with around 15,000-27,000 casualties
Strategic and Tactical Elements
- Napoleon used a feint retreat to lure the allies into a trap, making them believe he was weaker than he actually was.
- The Pratzen Heights became the critical terrain feature; Napoleon drew the allies off these heights, allowing the French to capture them, which then allowed Napoleon to split the allied forces.
- The famous Sun of Austerlitz refers to a moment when the sun broke through the fog, blinding the allied troops while the French attacked.
Aftermath
- The victory at Austerlitz consolidated Napoleon's control over much of Europe.
- It led to the dissolution of the Holy Roman Empire and the establishment of the Confederation of the Rhine.
- The battle's success further cemented Napoleon's reputation as a military genius.
Sources
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