Treaties of Tilsit

What it is

These two treaties were signed by Napoleon in the town of Tilsit in July 1807: one with Russian Emperor Alexander I on 7 July, and one with Prussia on 9 July, following Napoleon's victory at the Battle of Friedland in the War of the Fourth Coalition.

Why it matters

The treaties stripped Prussia of about half its territory and created new French client states, while allying Russia with France against Britain and Sweden. They mark the peak of Napoleon's dominance over continental Europe, showing how military victory translated directly into political power over other rulers, including Tsar Alexander I and King Frederick William III of Prussia.

Look closer

• What does the choice of meeting on a raft between two empires suggest about how Napoleon wanted to present the negotiation?
• Why might Napoleon have wanted to flatter Alexander I while stripping Prussia of territory?
• What problems might this treaty's harsh terms toward Prussia create in future?