War of the Sixth Coalition: Napoleon's February–March 1814 campaign in France (1814)

In February and March 1814, Napoleon defended France against the Sixth Coalition. After initial setbacks, he won a series of victories in the Six Days' Campaign, defeating Prussian and Russian forces. Allied commanders like Wellington and Schwarzenberg achieved successes in the southwest and east, culminating in the Treaty of Chaumont, which solidified the coalition's alliance against France.

Episodes

Background and detail

Background. Following the disastrous invasion of Russia, the Sixth Coalition poised to invade France from the north-east and south-west. Napoleon relied on young conscripts, known as "Marie-Louises," to defend the empire. The campaign saw intense fighting as Allied armies closed in on Paris, with Napoleon attempting to halt their advance through rapid maneuvers and decisive engagements.

The Six Days' Campaign. Between 10 and 15 February 1814, Napoleon secured a series of victories known as the Six Days' Campaign. He defeated Prussian and Russian corps at Montmirail, Château-Thierry, and Vauchamps. These successes temporarily halted the Allied advance on Paris, demonstrating Napoleon's tactical skill despite being outnumbered and facing fresh, inexperienced troops.

Allied Counteroffensive. In late February and March, Allied forces regained momentum. Wellington defeated French troops in the southwest, while Schwarzenberg's armies defeated MacDonald in the east. Napoleon won at Craonne but suffered heavy losses. The campaign concluded with the Treaty of Chaumont, which deepened the alliance among the four major powers against France.

People involved

Sources

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