The Napoleonic Wars altered the balance of power in Europe through the rise of French dominance under Napoleon Bonaparte. His conquests spread revolutionary ideals, including nationalism and liberal governance, across the continent. The formation of coalitions against France by other European powers led to significant political realignments, with territories being reshaped and new alliances forged. The Congress of Vienna (1814-1815) sought to restore stability by redrawing boundaries and establishing a balance of power that would prevent future domination by a single state. This period set the stage for both national unifications and increased tensions that would shape 19th-century Europe.