Central Germany - Introduction

Central Germany Strategic Map

Background

Napoleon believed that the Russian Army was held on the eastern bank of the river Oder by his allies the Prussians.   He was unaware of the secret treaty signed by the allies on 1 January 1813.   Or that the Russians had crossed the river Oder on 20 January 1813

On 15 February he received reports that the Russians had not only crossed the river Oder, but had entered Dresden a week earlier.

He immediately ordered Marshal Davout to form Second French Army at Dusseldorf and prepare to march east to confront the Russians.   On 28 February Davout confirmed that his Army was operational and ready to advance.

Second French Army

Davout commanded four corps.   The Young Guard, two French corps and one Westphalian corps.
Each corps consisted of four infantry brigades, one cavalry brigade and corps artillery.   

Russian Army

Wittgenstein commanded four corps
Each corps consisted of four infantry brigades, one cavalry brigade and corps artillery.