16 March 1813
Prussia joins war on France

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Two weeks after advancing Russian troops take Berlin from the French, Prussia joins yet another coalition (see Empire) against France. The Sixth Coalition, formed just before Napoleon began his invasion of Russia, then consisted of Britain, Russia, Austria and Sweden, the Swedes having been paid by Britain to put 30,000 troops into the field. Britain, which is providing financial backing for the other Coalition armies as well, also agreed not to oppose the union of Norway with Sweden. Over the coming year, Napoleon wins a series of victories over the Coalition, even forcing it to agree to a 40-day peace in June, but his forces are being worn down with every battle. The Battle of Nations in October will prove decisive.

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