Napoleon was largely successful in the Napoleonic Wars from 1803 to 1812, achieving significant military victories and territorial expansion for France. However, his invasion of Russia in 1812 marked a turning point with catastrophic losses, undermining his earlier successes.

Early Successes 1803-1811

Napoleon secured many victories that expanded French control across Europe. His military campaigns often resulted in decisive battlefield wins and the establishment of French dominance in large parts of the continent. He implemented political reforms and consolidated power in the territories he conquered, demonstrating his strategic and administrative capabilities during this period.

The Russian Campaign 1812

The 1812 invasion of Russia was disastrous for Napoleon. Despite initial advances and a major victory at the Battle of Smolensk, the Russian army employed scorched-earth tactics and strategic retreats that stretched French supply lines thin. The critical Battle of Borodino was indecisive and extremely costly, leaving Napoleon unable to destroy the Russian forces entirely. Ultimately, the harsh Russian winter, supply shortages, guerrilla warfare, and disease decimated the Grande Armée. Of the nearly half a million troops who entered Russia, only about 27,000 fit soldiers survived the retreat by late 1812, with hundreds of thousands dead, missing, or captured.

Summary

While Napoleon was highly successful in most campaigns from 1803 through 1811, the failed Russian campaign in 1812 marked a significant turning point toward eventual decline. His early conquest and control over large parts of Europe contrast sharply with the catastrophic losses suffered in Russia that undercut the strength of his forces.

Thus, Napoleon's success in the Napoleonic Wars from 1803 to 1812 was mixed, with remarkable achievements in the early years overshadowed by the devastating Russian campaign.