key term - Saint Helena

Definition

Saint Helena is a remote island in the South Atlantic Ocean, known primarily as the site of Napoleon Bonaparte's exile following his defeat at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. The island served as a strategic location for the British to ensure that Napoleon would not return to power, isolating him from European affairs and marking the end of his influence on the continent.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Napoleon was exiled to Saint Helena after his defeat at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815 and remained there until his death in 1821.
2. Saint Helena is located approximately 1,200 miles from the nearest landmass, making it an effective prison for someone of Napoleon's stature.
3. During his exile, Napoleon lived in a residence known as Longwood House, where he wrote his memoirs and reflected on his life and military campaigns.
4. The British government kept a close watch on Napoleon during his time on Saint Helena, fearing that he might escape or incite rebellion in France or elsewhere.
5. Napoleon died on Saint Helena on May 5, 1821, reportedly due to stomach cancer, but there have been various conspiracy theories regarding the true cause of his death.

Review Questions

• How did Napoleon's exile to Saint Helena reflect the attitudes of European powers towards him after his defeat?
  • Napoleon's exile to Saint Helena demonstrated the determination of European powers to prevent any potential resurgence of his influence. After his defeat at the Battle of Waterloo, leaders like Wellington and Metternich sought to eliminate any chance of his return to power. By isolating him on a remote island far from Europe, they aimed to secure stability across the continent and signal that authoritarian figures like Napoleon would no longer be tolerated.
• Discuss the implications of Saint Helena as a location for Napoleon's exile in terms of its geography and political significance.
  • Saint Helena’s remote geography made it an ideal location for Napoleon’s exile. Being over a thousand miles away from any major landmass ensured that escape was nearly impossible. Politically, this decision reflected the British government's strategy to control not only Napoleon's physical presence but also the narrative surrounding him. By choosing such an isolated place, they effectively stifled any potential resurgence of Napoleonic ideals or movements within Europe.
• Evaluate how Napoleon's time on Saint Helena influenced European politics and public perception post-1815.
  • Napoleon's exile on Saint Helena had a profound impact on European politics and public perception after 1815. His reflections and writings during this time contributed to his mythologization as a tragic hero rather than merely a fallen dictator. This shift influenced nationalist movements across Europe, where some viewed him as a champion of reform against monarchies. Moreover, the fear of another Napoleonic-style leader encouraged European powers to work more closely together through alliances and congresses, aiming for a balance of power that sought to prevent future conflicts reminiscent of the Napoleonic Wars.

Related terms

Napoleon Bonaparte:

A French military leader and emperor who rose to prominence during the French Revolution and its associated wars, ultimately establishing himself as one of history's most notable leaders.

Battle of Waterloo:

The decisive battle fought on June 18, 1815, where Napoleon was defeated by the Seventh Coalition, leading to his abdication and subsequent exile.

Exile:

The state of being barred from one's native country, often for political or punitive reasons; in Napoleon's case, it marked the end of his rule and influence over Europe.