The Longest Afternoon: The 400 Men Who Decided the Battle of Waterloo

The true story, told minute by minute, of the soldiers who defeated Napoleon
From Brendan Simms, acclaimed author of Europe: The Struggle for Supremacy

Europe had been at war for over twenty years. After a brief respite during Napoleon's exile, he returned to France, threatening to plunge the continent into another generation of devastating conflict. In the small Belgian village of Waterloo, two massive, hastily mobilized armies faced off to decide the future of Europe.

The Battle of Waterloo and the Unsung Heroes of La Haye Sainte
Unknown to both Napoleon and Wellington, the outcome of the battle hinged on the actions of a small, ordinary group of British and German troops. These soldiers were tasked with defending the farmhouse of La Haye Sainte, and their extraordinary efforts would prove decisive.

Key Highlights of Their Story:

• Fear, chaos, and chanciness of battle: The book vividly recaptures the unpredictable and harrowing nature of warfare.
• Untapped eye-witness reports: Previously unused accounts bring the story to life with unparalleled authenticity.
• Determination, cunning, and fighting spirit: Despite being outnumbered, these 400 soldiers held off thousands of French troops.

Through their bravery and resilience, this small group of defenders changed the course of history, ensuring Napoleon's defeat and shaping the future of Europe.