Napoleonic Wars
Definition
The Napoleonic Wars were a series of major conflicts from 1803 to 1815 between Napoleon's French Empire and various European powers formed into several coalitions.
Analogy
Consider the Napoleonic Wars like an intense season-long sports rivalry. Napoleon's team (France) was constantly battling against different teams (other European powers). Each match-up brought new challenges but was part of one long competition season (the wars).
Related terms
French Revolution: An uprising in France from 1789 to 1799 that led to the end of the monarchy and rise of Napoleon.
Congress of Vienna: A conference between ambassadors from major powers in Europe that sought to settle political and territorial questions after the defeat of Napoleon in 1814-15.
Continental System: An economic policy implemented by Napoleon to cripple Britain's economy during the Napoleonic Wars.
"Napoleonic Wars" appears in:
Subjects (2)
Study guides (3)
Practice Questions (2)
- How did the Napoleonic Wars most influence trade in the U.S.?
- How might the War of 1812 have changed if Britain hadn't been preoccupied with Napoleonic Wars?
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