Through the observations of these immensely well-connected and brilliant writers, Brian Unwin provides a fresh and fascinating insight into some of the principal events and persons of one of the most seminal and turbulent periods of modern European history.

Tracing events from the dramatic defeat at Waterloo to his death six years later, this book offers a comprehensive account of the last phase of Napoleon's life. It also offers fresh insights into the character of this giant of European history.

At its height, the Napoleonic Empire spanned much of mainland Europe. But following his defeat at the Battle of Waterloo the future of the one-time Emperor of France and master of Europe seemed bleak. Tracing events from the defeat at Waterloo to his death six years later, this book gives an account of the last phase of Napoleon's life.

A wide-ranging perspective on an extraordinary career