Battle of the Berezina

In a desperate attempt to cross the Berezina to escape encirclement, Napoleon had two bridges erected under Russian fire. Thanks to a successful diversion, French troops managed to cross the river at the cost of heavy losses. The phrase "it's a Berezina" derives from this bloody retreat.

Russian forces attempted to encircle the retreating Grande Armée, cut off from any retreat westward. Napoleon feigned intending to cross the Berezina downstream, then achieved a surprise crossing at Studianka. Fighting was fierce on the bridges and banks.

Bridges built in 24 hours by engineers under General Éblé. Diversion at Borisov. Victor and Oudinot pinned the Russians while main units crossed. Fighting intensified around the bridges, later destroyed by the French.

The battle allowed Napoleon to save what remained of his army, but at the cost of carnage. The crossing marked the military end of the Russian campaign. The army was shattered, survivors exhausted. Human and material losses were considerable.