what ultimately caused napoleons army to weaken
There were several factors that ultimately caused Napoleon's army to weaken:
1. Overextension: Napoleon's empire became too large and difficult to control, stretching his army's resources thin.
2. Guerrilla warfare: In Spain and Russia, local resistance fighters used guerrilla tactics to harass and weaken Napoleon's troops.
3. Logistics and supply issues: Napoleon's army suffered from poor supply lines, leading to shortages of food, ammunition, and other essential supplies.
4. Harsh conditions: The invasion of Russia in 1812 exposed Napoleon's troops to harsh weather conditions, leading to mass casualties from frostbite and starvation.
5. Coalition forces: European powers formed coalitions against Napoleon, gradually wearing down his forces through a series of battles.
6. Nationalism: As Napoleon's empire expanded, nationalist movements in conquered territories began to rise up against French rule, further draining his army's strength.
7. Internal dissent: Military defeats and reversals of fortune eroded the morale and loyalty of Napoleon's troops, leading to desertions and rebellions within the ranks.