Borodino If you happen to be in Moscow in early September, you have a chance to see one of the most famous reenactments in the world — the Battle of Borodino.
The Battle of Borodino, fought on September 7, 1812, was the largest single-day action of the French invasion of Russia. Napoleon’s plans to defeat the Russian army were ruined as Russians demonstrated bravery and military skills.
There’s still some historical dispute about who won the battle of Borodino. On the one hand, Kutuzov ordered his army to retreat and leave Moscow. On the other hand, this battle became the turning point in the war, and the French army was badly weakened for the first time: 30,000 French soldiers were killed or wounded. “Of the fifty battles I have fought, the most terrible was that before Moscow,” Napoleon later said.
In memory of the Battle of Borodino the Borodino Museum of History was established. On the territory of the museum a reenactment of the Battle of Borodino takes place on the first weekend of September. About two thousand common people wearing the uniforms of the Russian and French armies of 1812 recreate the scenario of the Battle of Borodino in every detail. During the event there are lines of infantry, artillery, grenadiers, hussars, dragoons on the battlefield. Smoke and flame from the batteries of cannon go up, cavalry runs across the battlefield amid the fire. They give viewers the atmosphere of the battle reproducing everything: from the colour, shape and material of the uniforms to the weapons and musical instruments as well as the music, language and customs.
We can imagine how it was thanks to history lovers from all over Russia. They study historical literature and make costumes, weapons, flags, drums and other things to take a step back in time and to live like people lived some two hundred years ago. They do it not because it can bring them a lot of money or fame, but mostly because they believe it’s a right thing to do. They remember history and treat it not like a few dull paragraphs in a school textbook but as live moments of the past that influenced the future. To get in the “role” they arrive at Borodino several days in advance and set a field camp. For this time they completely give up any modern things and habits.
I have gone to Borodino for many years, and every time it’s like a first time — so exiting, so colourful and breathtaking! I am always impressed by the things going on in front of my eyes — hundreds of soldiers loading their guns, screaming “Attack!” and riding horses just in a few metres from my nose! It’s a moment of history when we, modern people, are paying tribute to our ancestors, and show that we remember their acts of bravery. I’m truly amazed by people dedicating their time and talents to battle reproduction and I’m sure they’re doing the right thing. They show that bravery, honesty and courage still exist and are valued. As someone said, if you do not know your history, you have no future. I leave Borodino every time to come to the battlefield next time! |