Summary of Napoleon Part Five - Downfall & Exile Documentary
Russian writers in the 19th century had differing views on Napoleon, with Leo Tolstoy seeing him as a murderous brigand while Fyodor Dostoevsky saw him as a figure who could change the world.
- Napoleon's invasion of Russia in 1812 was a defining campaign in his career, leading to the Battle of Borodino and the burning of Moscow.
- Despite some victories during the 100 days after his return from exile in Elba, Napoleon was ultimately defeated at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815, which became a turning point in his downfall.
- The Battle of Waterloo led to his defeat and exile, with Napoleon abdicating for the second time and being exiled to the island of Saint Helena, where he died in 1821.
- Napoleon's return to Paris after the battle led to his abdication for the second time, as the Chamber of Deputies took power.
- His failed attempts to raise a new army resulted in his surrender to the Royal Navy and exile to St. Helena.
- In exile, Napoleon experienced deteriorating health until his eventual death in 1821.
Significance
- The Congress of Vienna reshaped Europe's borders in the aftermath of the Napoleonic Wars, redrawing borders and restoring monarchies.
- Napoleon's legacy, impact on Europe, rise to power, achievements, mistakes, and influence on future conflicts were all significant aspects of his life and reign.
Notable Quotes
— 90:20 — « "What all of this reveals is a man who rose from obscure beginnings to a position of immense power based largely on his own abilities and it is not unreasonable to say his own greatness." »
— 90:46 — « "The Corsan bears the blame for this exponential increase in the levels of violence being seen across Europe in the early 19th century." »
— 92:04 — « "His obsession with enforcing the impractical Continental System damaged his relations with his one remaining major ally Zar Alexander of Russia and ultimately contributed to his fateful invasion of the Russian Empire." »
— 93:03 — « "What do you think of Napoleon Bonaparte and his fall from power? Do you think he would have been able to retain control of much of Europe had it not been for his fateful decision to invade Russia?" »
— 93:15 — « "Or were his problems mounting anyway with the Peninsula War and other conflicts?" »
Category
Educational