Napoleon's doomed army: DNA reveals shocking cause of 1812 defeat.
Napoleon's soldiers faced more than just the Russian winter. New DNA analysis of skeletal remains from his 1812 invasion reveals a widespread and devastating parasitic infection. This hidden enemy weakened the Grand Army significantly. Scientists discovered high levels of tapeworm DNA in the soldiers' bones.
This hidden truth explains the soldiers' rapid decline. The tapeworm infestation likely caused severe malnutrition and illness. This made them highly vulnerable to the brutal Russian environment. The findings paint a grim picture of suffering and disease.
The research highlights how internal biological factors can be as deadly as external threats. It's a stark reminder of the unseen challenges faced by armies. This discovery offers a crucial new perspective on the historical disaster.
Future studies may further uncover the specific impact of these parasites on military campaigns.
