Mikhail Barclay de Tolly

Barclay de Tolly was appointed Russian Minister of War by Tsar Alexander I. He implemented military reforms, including the creation of a general staff and improved training, preparing the army for the impending war with Napoleon.

As commander of the 1st Western Army, Barclay de Tolly ordered a strategic retreat into Russia, implementing a scorched earth policy to deny Napoleon supplies. This controversial decision preserved the Russian army but led to his removal from command due to public pressure.

Barclay de Tolly commanded the Russian right wing and center at the Battle of Borodino. He personally led troops into battle, having three horses killed under him. His forces held their positions against French assaults, but the battle was a tactical draw.

Barclay de Tolly commanded the Russian forces at the Battle of Leipzig, the largest battle of the Napoleonic Wars. His troops played a key role in the Allied victory that forced Napoleon to retreat across the Rhine.

Barclay de Tolly led the Russian contingent in the Allied capture of Paris. The fall of Paris led to Napoleon's abdication and the end of the War of the Sixth Coalition.