The French Empire under Napoleon collapsed in 1815, following his defeat at the Battle of Waterloo. After rising to power through military prowess and political cunning, Napoleon established a vast empire that spread across much of Europe. However, his aggressive expansionism fueled widespread opposition and coalitions among European powers. The costly invasion of Russia in 1812 significantly weakened his forces, leading to his first abdication in 1814. Though he briefly returned to power in the Hundred Days, his ultimate defeat at Waterloo by an allied army led to his exile. This marked a pivotal moment in European history, ending the Napoleonic Wars and reshaping Europe’s political landscape.