smudge42: Time for these to go. Container collected.
An epic battle with ebb & flow. The consequences of the French defeat filter through to the modern day in many ways, and it can be argued that stability was achieved throughout Europe as a result.
At around 11:00 on 18th June the Battle of Waterloo began when Napoleon launched an infantry attack on the strategically vital château Hougoumont. For eight hours the French battered the compound, but its defenders held fast. Around 13:00 Napoleon advances to attack the centre of Wellington's line. This was initially repulsed through well organised infantry fire, and then chased down with cavalry, capturing two French 'eagles' but losing a third of its men in the process. At 15:00 and for the following two hours, the French cavalry attacked the Allied troops, but the allies, formed into tight squares bristling with guns and bayonets proved unbeatable. Towards evening at around 18:15, La Haye Saint eventually fell to the French as the defenders ran out of ammunition. This was a key stronghold, and it allowed Napoleon the opportunity to send forward his artillery. Meanwhile, the Prussians had fought their way to within reach of Napoleon's headquarters and the scene was set for the final showdown.
The time had come for Napoleon to deploy the Imperial Guard, his 'Invincibles', against the Allied line. As the Invincibles advanced, Wellington himself gave the order to open fire. The Invincibles fell back under the ensuing firestorm. As they retreated, panic spread amongst the French and their resolve crumbled. Napoleon was defeated - but only just. It was as Wellington reflected, "the nearest run thing you ever saw in your life."