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New Evidence Reveals Diseases Behind Napoleon's Army Losses

8/11/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Genetic evidence now reveals that Salmonella enterica Paratyphi C and Borrelia recurrentis were the true culprits behind the deaths of Napoleon Bonaparte’s troops during their harrowing 1812 retreat from Russia, overturning the long-held belief that epidemic typhus was the main threat. This research underscores the devastating impact of disease in warfare, compounded by brutal conditions.

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Story summary

Genetic evidence now reveals that Salmonella enterica Paratyphi C and Borrelia recurrentis were the true culprits behind the deaths of Napoleon Bonaparte’s troops during their harrowing 1812 retreat from Russia, overturning the long-held belief that epidemic typhus was the main threat. This research underscores the devastating impact of disease in warfare, compounded by brutal conditions.