On this day 26 February - Napoleon escapes from Elba

[7eat51]

On the 26th of February 1815, Napoleon escaped from his exile on the isle of Elba. He arrived at Portoferraio, Elba’s capital, during the spring of the previous year. While exiled, Napoleon ruled Elba’s 12,000 inhabitants, initiating efforts to improve life on the isle. During this time, however, he made plans to return to France and take up the mantle of Emperor. Napoleon was privy to news that a pro-Bonaparte movement had begun in France, for many there feared that King Louis XVIII would overturn numerous fruits of the Revolution. Believing that he would secure the loyalty of the French army and many of France’s citizens, he returned to Paris on the 20th of March 1815. Though Napoleon regained control of France without bloodshed, war with Europe was on the horizon.

Napoleon:


Elba:


Napoleon leaving Elba:


Napoleon’s return from Elba:



For more on today’s event:
http://www.sparknotes.com/biography/...section9.rhtml
http://www.thenagain.info/webchron/w.../Waterloo.html

[Jack Aubrey]

Fantastic choice of pictures; gute Auswahl der Bilder, Eric.