Napoleon Bonaparte’s Second Abdication - June 22, 1815

On June 22, 1815, Napoleon Bonaparte abdicated the French throne for the second time, marking a significant turning point in European history. This event followed his decisive defeat at the Battle of Waterloo, which effectively ended the period known as the Hundred Days.

Context and Lead-Up

• The Hundred Days: This period began on March 20, 1815, when Napoleon returned to France from his exile on the island of Elba. His return was marked by a swift and largely unopposed march to Paris, where he reclaimed power from King Louis XVIII, who fled the capital.

• Battle of Waterloo: Fought on June 18, 1815, this battle was a culmination of the Seventh Coalition’s efforts to end Napoleon’s rule. The coalition, led by the Duke of Wellington and Prussian General Gebhard Leberecht von Blücher, decisively defeated Napoleon’s forces. The loss at Waterloo shattered Napoleon’s hopes of maintaining his empire.

The Abdication

• June 22, 1815: Facing insurmountable military opposition and political pressure, Napoleon abdicated in favor of his son, Napoleon II, though the latter never ruled. The abdication was a result of both internal political pressure from the French legislature and the external military threat posed by the advancing coalition forces.

• Political Pressure: The French legislative bodies, particularly the Chamber of Deputies, were instrumental in pushing for Napoleon’s abdication. They feared the consequences of continued conflict with the coalition forces and sought to negotiate peace.

Aftermath and Exile

• Exile to Saint Helena: After his abdication, Napoleon initially sought asylum in the United States but was ultimately captured by British forces. He was exiled to the remote island of Saint Helena in the South Atlantic Ocean, where he lived under British supervision until his death in 1821.

• Impact on Europe: Napoleon’s abdication and subsequent exile marked the end of the Napoleonic Wars, leading to the Congress of Vienna’s efforts to restore stability and balance of power in Europe. The Bourbon monarchy was restored in France with Louis XVIII returning to the throne.

Historical Significance

Napoleon’s second abdication signaled the definitive end of his reign and the Napoleonic era, reshaping the political landscape of Europe. It underscored the challenges of maintaining a vast empire in the face of unified opposition and set the stage for a century of relative peace in Europe, known as the Concert of Europe. The events surrounding his abdication continue to be studied for their profound impact on European history and the legacy of Napoleonic reforms.