The Russo-Swedish War of 1808-09

Historical Overview

In 1807 Tsar Alexander and Napoleon signed the treaty of Tilsit, dividing Europe between themselves. The Russians were promised free hands with Sweden, who was at war with France at the time. The tsar immediately started building up invasion forces at the Russo-Swedish border.

The Swedish ambassador in St. Petersburg was alerted by the situation and constantly sent letters back to Stockholm with warnings of a war approaching. Russian military presence in the area was rapidly built up but the Swedish government, under king Gustav IV, took no notice. The Swedish military in Finland relied upon fort Sveaborg (outside Helsinki), considered to be one of the strongest fortifications in Europe at the time.

Shortly after new year 1808 the Russians were ready for the offensive. On the 21st of February 1808 the greencoats crossed the border to Finland, forgetting to declare war.

In march Denmark also declared war on Sweden. French and Spanish troops arrived to Denmark for a planned invasion in southern Sweden, Skane. This invasion force was led by Marshal Bernadotte (note the irony). The invasion from Denmark never got off the ground though, the Spanish part of the army deserted after hearing about the outbreak of the Peninsular war and were evacuated on British ships.

Maps by [HWK]Tim

This site is © Copyright The Hawks Group 2004-2005, All Rights Reserved