Historical Context
The Crimean War was a complex conflict that had its roots in the long-term decline of the Ottoman Empire, which had become known as the "sick man of Europe." The alliance of France, Britain and the Ottomans fought against Russia as they did not want the latter gaining from the Ottoman decline.
The war commenced in October 1853 but it would not be until September 1854 that the Allies landed in Crimea. Shortly after their landing they engaged the Russians at the Battle of the Alma and inflicted a defeat. The Russians would later counterattack at the Battle of Balaclava (where the famous Charge of the Light Brigade took place).
Eventually the Russians would admit defeat in Crimea. It was the catalyst for them to begin widespread reforms in all aspects of their military and society in order to keep pace with the rapidly developing European nations.
Painting Info
Artist: Louis Johns
Location painted: West Coast of the Crimea Peninsula, Ukraine, Russian Empire
Source: British Battles
Related Events
- 1854-09-20 Battle of the Alma: British, French and Ottoman alliance defeat the Russian Empire in the 1st major battle of the Crimean War
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