Fall of Berlin (1806) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Fall of Berlin
Part of The War of the Fourth Coalition
Napoleon entering Berlin with the Brandenburg Gate in the background.
Date 24 October 1806 Location Berlin, Kingdom of Prussia 52°31′12″N 13°24′18″E / 52.52000°N 13.40500°E / 52.52000; 13.40500 Result French victory
Belligerents
First French Empire	Kingdom of Prussia
Commanders and leaders
Napoleon	Frederick William III of Prussia

The capture of Berlin happened on October 24, 1806. The capital city of Prussia, Berlin, was taken over by French forces. This happened right after the big Battle of Jena–Auerstedt. The French Emperor Napoleon entered Berlin three days later. While there, he announced a special order called the Berlin Decree. This decree was part of his plan to control trade in Europe. The city was also heavily looted by the French soldiers.

What Happened After the Capture of Berlin?

After Berlin was captured, more important battles took place. These included the Battle of Eylau and the Battle of Friedland. These battles, along with the Treaty of Tilsit, forced Prussia to give up large parts of its land. Prussia also had to let French soldiers stay in its main forts and towns.

Prussia Becomes a French Ally

Prussia became a client state of France. This means it was a country that was controlled by France. Prussia also had to pay a lot of money to France. Berlin itself stayed under French control until early 1813. French soldiers were also stationed at the nearby Spandau Citadel.

French Retreat and Prussian Uprising

In 1812, Napoleon's army had to retreat from Moscow. Prussian soldiers who were helping the French then switched sides. They started to support Russia instead. At the same time, many people in Prussia rose up against the French. This forced the French troops to leave Berlin.

Attempts to Recapture Berlin

After the French left, Berlin became a major target for them. They tried to take it back during the German campaign of 1813. But they failed, and the French finally left Germany completely after the Battle of Leipzig.

How Did This Event Change Prussia?

The capture of Berlin was a big shock for the leaders of Prussia. Berlin had been raided twice before, in 1757 and 1760, during the Seven Years' War. But this time, the city was fully occupied. This event badly damaged the good reputation of the Prussian Army. The Prussian army was once known for being very strong, especially during the time of Frederick the Great.

Napoleon's Visit to Frederick the Great's Tomb

When Napoleon arrived in Berlin, he visited the tomb of Frederick the Great. He is said to have told his generals, "Hats off gentlemen, if he were alive we wouldn’t be here today." This moment became famous in German culture. It was shown in Prussian films like Old Fritz (1927) and Kolberg (1945).

Reforms in Prussia

After Berlin fell, Prussia started a major reform movement. The goal was to make the Prussian Army strong again. They also wanted to make the whole country better. This was all to prepare for a war to get revenge on France. The new and improved Prussian forces played a key role in forcing the French out of Germany in 1813–1814. They also helped defeat Napoleon for good during the Waterloo campaign in 1815.