First Treaty of Paris and Napoleon's exile to Elba

Background. Following the capture of Paris by coalition forces, Napoleon Bonaparte was forced to abdicate in April 1814. The Treaty of Fontainebleau, signed on 11 April 1814, established the terms for his exile to Elba, where he was made sovereign. An armistice was signed on 23 April 1814 between Charles, Count of Artois, and the allies, setting the stage for the formal peace negotiations that would conclude in May.

Treaty Terms. The Treaty of Paris, signed on 30 May 1814, confirmed France's borders as they existed on 1 June 1792. While returning to these limits, France retained certain territories such as Saarbrücken, Saarlouis, Landau, and parts of Savoy. The treaty also returned the territory of Santo Domingo to Spain and required the cession of several colonies. The preliminary conditions had been kept moderate so as not to disturb the re-enthronement of the returned Bourbon king.

Exile Settlement. The exile of Napoleon to Elba was settled by the Treaty of Fontainebleau in April 1814. He was conveyed to the island by HMS Undaunted and arrived at Portoferraio on 4 May 1814. The allies made him sovereign of this Mediterranean island, which had a population of 12,000 inhabitants, distinct from the diplomatic negotiations occurring in Paris later that month.