The Treaty of Fontainebleau marked the end of Napoleon's reign and his first exile, reshaping European political dynamics.
The Treaty of Fontainebleau, signed on April 11, 1814, was a pivotal document that marked the abdication of Napoleon Bonaparte and his exile to the island of Elba. This treaty concluded the Sixth Coalition's campaign against Napoleon, effectively ending his rule as Emperor of the French. The treaty was negotiated between Napoleon and representatives of the Allied Powers, including Austria, Russia, Prussia, and Great Britain. It established the terms of Napoleon's abdication, the renunciation of his and his family's rights to the French throne, and the conditions of his exile. The treaty also provided Napoleon with sovereignty over Elba and a pension, reflecting the Allies' desire to neutralize him as a threat while avoiding further destabilization in France. The Treaty of Fontainebleau significantly altered the European political landscape, setting the stage for the Congress of Vienna and the reorganization of Europe post-Napoleon. Its terms, while temporarily stabilizing, left unresolved tensions that would later resurface, particularly with Napoleon's return during the Hundred Days.
Chapters
Timeline
1813-10-19
Battle of Leipzig
The Battle of Leipzig, also known as the Battle of Nations, marked a decisive defeat for Napoleon, leading to the loss of his German territories and setting the stage for the invasion of France.
1814-03-31
Capture of Paris
Allied forces captured Paris, dealing a symbolic blow to Napoleon's regime and underscoring the inevitability of his downfall.
1814-04-04
Napoleon's Initial Abdication Proposal
Napoleon proposed to abdicate in favor of his son, Napoleon II, but the Allies rejected this, insisting on his complete abdication.
1814-04-11
Treaty of Fontainebleau Signed
The Treaty of Fontainebleau was signed, marking Napoleon's abdication and his exile to Elba, effectively ending his reign as Emperor of the French.
1814-04-20
Napoleon's Farewell to the Old Guard
Napoleon bid an emotional farewell to his Old Guard at Fontainebleau, marking the end of his reign and his departure to exile.
1814-05-04
Napoleon Arrives in Elba
Napoleon arrived on the island of Elba, beginning his exile as its ruler under the terms of the Treaty of Fontainebleau.
1814-09-01
Congress of Vienna Begins
The Congress of Vienna convened to redraw the map of Europe and establish a balance of power following the Napoleonic Wars.
1815-03-01
Napoleon Escapes from Elba
Napoleon escaped from Elba and returned to France, initiating the Hundred Days and challenging the post-treaty peace.
1815-06-18
Battle of Waterloo
The Battle of Waterloo marked Napoleon's final defeat, ending the Hundred Days and leading to his second abdication and exile.
1815-11-20
Second Treaty of Paris
The Second Treaty of Paris was signed, formally ending the Napoleonic Wars and establishing a new European order.
Connected Across The Archives
Explore specific connections to other archives—civilizations, conflicts, dynasties, and companies that share history with this treaty.
Civilization Archive
(1)
Conflict Archive
(2)Napoleonic Wars
The Treaty of Fontainebleau, ending Napoleon's rule, significantly altered Europe's political map, influencing post-war territorial agreements.
Peninsular War
The Treaty of Fontainebleau ended the Peninsular War, crucially redrawing Iberian borders and weakening Napoleonic influence in Spain and Portugal.
