Arthur Wellesley, the 1st Duke of Wellington, was a prominent British military leader and statesman born on May 1, 1769. He is best known for his role in the Napoleonic Wars, particularly for defeating Napoleon Bonaparte at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. His military strategies and leadership earned him a reputation as one of Britain's greatest generals. In addition to his military career, Wellington served as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom twice, from 1828 to 1830 and briefly in 1834. He was a key figure in British politics during the early 19th century and played a significant role in shaping the country's policies and governance.