The Napoleonic Wars were a series of wars fought by the French Empire and its allies against various European powers between 1803 and 1815. These conflicts began with Napoleon Bonaparte's rise to power in France and his subsequent declaration of war on Great Britain, Austria, and Russia in 1803. The fighting ended with Napoleon's defeat at the Battle of Waterloo in June 1815.
During the course of these wars, Napoleon and his armies conquered much of Europe, including key victories at Austerlitz, Jena-Auerstedt, Marengo, and Waterloo. However, ultimately Napoleon was unable to maintain his control over the vast territories he had conquered and was forced to abdicate his throne in April 1814. He returned to power for a brief period in March 1815 before being defeated again at Waterloo.
These wars had a profound impact on European politics, society, and culture. They also ushered in a new era of military conflict characterized by more widespread use of artillery and advances in tactics and strategy.