June 22, 2011

On this date in 1812, Napoleon invaded Russia.

And then on this date in 1941, Hitler invaded Russia. 

They both fell victim to one of the classic blunders! The most famous is never get involved in a land war in Asia, but only slightly less known is this: don’t invade Russia.

Which… um… is actually part of Asia right? As it spans the entire length of the continent… hmm… so maybe the maxim should be: 

1. Never get involved in a land war in Asia
1A. Russia counts as Asia

Now that’s a solid maxim. Yeah, baby!