The Napoleonic Wars (1803-1815) played a crucial role in shaping modern Europe by redrawing national borders and altering the balance of power. These conflicts led to the rise of nationalism as many nations sought self-determination, inspired by the French Revolution and Napoleonic ideals. The dissolution of the Holy Roman Empire and the emergence of new states highlighted the decline of feudal aristocracy and the rise of centralized governance. The Congress of Vienna (1814-1815) aimed to restore order and resolve the power struggles created by Napoleon's conquests, leading to a new political landscape that emphasized diplomacy and collective security, laying groundwork for future European cooperation.