QUESTION: DOES THE BATTLE OF WATERLOO, 1815, HAVE RELEVANCE AND SIGNIFICANCE IN 2015

Patrick Mercer, OBE, is a former professional soldier who served with distinction in the Sherwood Foresters Regiment, his career also includes journalism and broadcasting, and he is now Member of Parliament for Newark, Nottinghamshire. On the Battle of Waterloo he says:

“Waterloo was the most important turning point in modern European history.  Politically, socially, economically and militarily, its effects are still being felt today; that’s why we need to not just know what happened but also what it meant to the nations which fought there.”

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And a word from the 8th Duke of Wellington

‘I am often asked whether we should not now, in these days of European unity, forget Waterloo and the battles of the past. My reply is, history cannot be forgotten and we need to be reminded of the bravery of the thousands of men from many nations who fought and died in a few hours on 18th June 1815 and why their gallantry and sacrifice ensured peace in Europe for 50 years’.

His Grace the Duke of Wellington, KG LVO OBE MC DL

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The events of 1815 were momentous both on and off the battlefield. It was a historical watershed which brought more than 22 years of conflict in Europe to a definitive close – it also affected many thousands of lives for much of the Nineteenth Century and beyond.

British infantry in square resisting one of many attacks from French cavalry.

The battle of Waterloo was a milestone in European history. It ended over 20 years of conflict in Europe. It involved many nations and heralded over 50 years of peace and stability. The battle was the culmination of a long campaign, fought in Spain and Portugal, by the Duke of Wellington and his allied armies. The commemoration of this seminal event will reflect the strategy and planning of the campaign in a modern context and will involve people of many nations.

Waterloo 200 has been established to direct and manage this unique International project. From the first action of the Peninsular War in 1808 at Rolica in Portugal, to the final battle at Waterloo in Belgium seven years later, Waterloo 200 will track and guide organisations and people who wish to be involved.