The Battle of Waterloo: New Discoveries Shed Light on a Historic Conflict
Unearthing the Allied Field Hospital
Archaeologists conducting the first excavations into the Allied field hospital from the Battle of Waterloo have made groundbreaking discoveries that provide new insights into the final face-off of the Napoleonic Wars.
Human Remains and Amputations
To the surprise of researchers, human remains have been found during the excavations. Four leg bones have been recovered, including one with the marks of a surgeon’s saw, indicating amputations without anesthetic. It’s estimated that 6,000 wounded soldiers passed through the temporary hospital during the battle, where limbs were amputated to save lives.
Cannonball Discovery
Near the field hospital, archaeologists have also recovered a rusting six-pound cannonball, believed to have come from French artillery. The hospital’s proximity to the front lines suggests that Napoleon’s forces came close to victory.
Veterans Uncover History
The team conducting the excavations includes 25 British and Dutch military veterans and active service members who are participating through the Waterloo Uncovered charity. The charity uses archaeology to help veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan recover from PTSD.
Waterloo Uncovered: A Unique Approach
Waterloo Uncovered was founded by Mark Evans and Charlie Foinette, two veterans who served in the Coldstream Guards, a regiment that played a critical role in the Battle of Waterloo. Despite the battle’s fame, little archaeology had taken place on the battlefield until this project began.
Significance of the Findings
The discoveries made at the Allied field hospital are particularly meaningful for the veterans involved. They provide a tangible connection to the soldiers who suffered and fought in the battle. The excavations also offer insights into the medical care of the time and the challenges faced by wounded soldiers.
Napoleon’s Downfall
The Battle of Waterloo marked the end of Napoleon Bonaparte’s military campaign and his rule as emperor of France. After his defeat in Russia and the Battle of Leipzig, Napoleon escaped from exile and attempted to regain power. However, he was defeated at Waterloo and forced to abdicate once more, spending his final years in exile on the island of St. Helena.
The Allied Victory
The Battle of Waterloo was a close victory for the Allies. British forces under the command of the Duke of Wellington were joined by Prussian troops, forcing Napoleon’s army to retreat. This victory ended Napoleon’s reign and restored peace to Europe.
Archaeological Legacy
Since the Waterloo Uncovered project began in 2015, over 2,200 artifacts have been unearthed. The excavations have provided valuable insights into the battle and its aftermath, helping to preserve its historical significance for future generations.
Additional Details
- The Allied field hospital was located a third of a mile from the front lines.
- Napoleon’s army was larger than the Allied forces, with 72,000 troops against 68,000.
- The Prussian forces that joined the battle numbered 30,000.
- Napoleon died in exile on St. Helena in 1821.
- The Waterloo battlefield has been extensively scavenged by souvenir seekers and metal detectorists in the past.
