How did Wellington treat France after Napoleon’s final defeat?

Created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

Arthur Wellesley, 1st duke of Wellington Arthur Wellesley, 1st duke of Wellington, oil on canvas by Sir Thomas Lawrence.

Following Napoleon’s final defeat at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815, the Duke of Wellington served as the commander in chief during the occupation of France. Rather than seeking vengeance, he actively opposed a punitive peace settlement.1

Wellington’s approach was characterized by a commitment to stability and reconstruction. He organized loans to help rescue French finances and advised the withdrawal of occupying Allied troops after only three years. Through these moderate policies, he earned the gratitude of the peace congress and demonstrated a pragmatic, statesmanlike approach to post-war diplomacy.1