# Napoleon returns from Elba (1815)

URL: https://history-france.com/timeline/1815-napoleon-returns-from-elba
Location: France

The Hundred Days began as Napoleon reclaimed power without major initial resistance. Within the broader Consulate & Napoleonic Empire period, Napoleon consolidated many revolutionary reforms while concentrating power, building an empire and waging continental war. French institutions and armies reshaped Europe before military defeat restored the Bourbons. At this point in the timeline, the relevant governing authority is Napoleon I (Emperor of the French (Hundred Days)). Napoleon returns from Elba is a useful marker in the longer transformation of political authority, society and culture in France. The event is positioned here so visitors can read it alongside changes in government, warfare, society, religion, culture and France’s wider international setting.

## Why it matters
Napoleon returns from Elba is a useful marker in the longer transformation of political authority, society and culture in France.

Ruler at the time: [Louis XVIII](https://history-france.com/rulers/louis-xviii-1815)

## Sources
- [Wikipedia topic lookup — Napoleon returns from Elba](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Search?search=Napoleon+returns+from+Elba&go=Go)
- [Encyclopaedia Britannica topic lookup — Napoleon returns from Elba](https://www.britannica.com/search?query=Napoleon+returns+from+Elba)
- [Vie-publique — French institutions and history](https://www.vie-publique.fr/)