Europe resented Napoleon’s attempt to impose French culture. The End of an Era Napoleon wanted to carry his ideas across Europe, nationalism kept troops going. Europe resented Napoleon’s attempt to impose French culture. Nepotism: favoritism shown to relatives by a person in high office. Gave power to siblings. Named brother, Joseph, ruler of Spain; they resisted.

French Empire at its greatest extent in 1811

Napoleon wanted to invade Great Britain and could not! The End of an Era Napoleon wanted to invade Great Britain and could not! Imposed the Continental System – closing European ports to British goods. Britain would prove to be Napoleon’s nemesis.

Guerrilla Warfare: hit and run raids by small bands of soldiers. The End of an Era Guerrilla Warfare: hit and run raids by small bands of soldiers. Russia broke ties with France. Grand Army: Over 600,000 troops assembled by Napoleon to invade Russia, 1812. “Scorched Earth” Policy: To avoid war, the Russians retreated away from Napoleon burning villages and crops along the way.

Only 20,000 troops made it home! The End of an Era Troops couldn’t make it through the Russian winter and were forced to turn back; 1,000 miles home. Only 20,000 troops made it home! Napoleon’s image was shattered, losing his next battle, the victors exiled him to Elba. Louis XVIII became king; it was a disaster. Many people wanted Napoleon back; he escaped from Elba and returned to Paris to cheering crowds! Called the One Hundred Days

The Battle of Waterloo: The End of an Era The Battle of Waterloo: “This whole affair will not be more serious than swallowing one’s breakfast.” Defeated by allied forces led by Duke of Wellington of Britain. Napoleon exiled to St. Helena, died there in 1821. European leaders promoted legitimacy. France was ringed by strong countries. Louis XVIII is restored to the throne in France.