Reel 1 of The Battle of Russia (1943) delves into the rich history of Russian resistance against foreign invasions. Beginning in 1242, the film recounts the German Order of Teutonic Knights’ occupation of Pskov and their threat to enslave the Russian population. Under the leadership of Prince Alexander Nevsky, the Russians achieved a decisive victory at the Battle of Lake Peipus, defeating the Teutonic forces on April 5, 1242. The reel continues with the 1704 invasion led by Charles XII of Sweden, culminating in the Swedes' defeat by Emperor Peter the Great at the Battle of Poltava after five years of war.
The narrative highlights Napoleon’s 1812 march toward Moscow, where the Russian people once again stood firm against a European conqueror. The reel concludes with footage of medieval battles, knights in armor, and the onset of World War I in 1914, when Kaiser Wilhelm's German forces attempted to conquer Russia. Through vivid storytelling and dramatic imagery, Reel 1 underscores the enduring resilience of the Russian people in defending their homeland.
The Battle of Russia (1943) - WWII Eastern Front Documentary