What was the duration of the Napoleonic Wars?

The Napoleonic Wars collectively refer to a series of conflicts involving Napoleon Bonaparte's French Empire and various European coalitions. They began in 1803, following the breakdown of the Treaty of Amiens, which had briefly established peace between France and Britain. The conflicts lasted until 1815, when Napoleon was defeated at the Battle of Waterloo and subsequently exiled.

The period from 1803 to 1815 captures all the significant military engagements and coalitions that characterized the wars, including the major campaigns in Europe and the broader geopolitical changes brought by Napoleon's rise and fall. This timeframe encompasses the height of Napoleon's power, the invasions of several European countries, and ultimately his abdication and return, which culminated in the final defeat.

Understanding the precise duration helps clarify the historical context of the wars, including the changes in alliances and the impact on European politics, which were significant during this time. The other options do not represent the complete span of the Napoleonic Wars, either starting or ending at incorrect points relative to the actual timeline of major events.