About this season
This docudrama revisits one of the most astounding military campaigns and defeats in history, Napoleon's attempted invasion of Russia.
Episodes (2)
1. Part 1
5.0Aired 10 January 2015 • 53 min
Since his victory over Tsar Alexander in 1807 and the Treaty of Tilsit, France and Russia are officially allies. But Alexander doesn’t support Napoleon’s expansionist strategy. To Napoleon, Russia’s behavior makes it an enemy of France. Ignoring calls for caution, Napoleon invades Russia in 1811.
2. Part 2
5.0Aired 10 January 2015 • 52 min
Part 2 details the hardships and deprivations suffered by Napoleon's Grande Armee as they await the surrender of the Tsar, which never comes. And with problems in France and his popularity waning, Napoleon begins the long, death-filled retreat from Russia with his exhausted, starving troops.