The Napoleonic Wars were a series of conflicts involving France, led by Napoleon Bonaparte, against various European coalitions from 1803 to 1815. These wars arose from the unresolved issues of the French Revolution and the desire of Napoleon to expand French territory and influence across Europe. The wars included significant battles such as Austerlitz and Waterloo, leading to major shifts in power. The conflict ended with Napoleon's defeat and exile, resulting in the restoration of monarchies in Europe and the establishment of the Congress of Vienna to maintain peace and balance among nations.