Napoleon's final defeat at hands of British and Prussian troops, after which he was exiled to St. Helena.

• A. Austerlitz
• B. Jena
• C. Leipzig
• D. Waterloo

Answer: (D)

Napoleon’s final defeat marks the end of his domination in Europe and the moment that led to his permanent exile. The battle at Waterloo, fought in 1815 near the town of Waterloo in present-day Belgium, brought together the British army under the Duke of Wellington and a Prussian force led by Gebhard von Blücher. Their coordinated, relentless assault broke Napoleon’s forces after his return from Elba during the Hundred Days, ending his rule and sending him to Saint Helena.

Earlier clashes show why this is the defining end point. Austerlitz was a spectacular French victory that strengthened his position, not ends to his power. Jena was another French victory against Prussia, expanding his control. Leipzig, though a major coalition defeat in 1813, pushed him back but did not conclude his story. Waterloo is the decisive end that closes Napoleon’s era and prompts his final exile.