Photo of the Duke of Wellington

Duke of Wellington

This is a rare photograph of the Duke of Wellington, the greatest British general. He is credited with defeating Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo. But his achievements included driving the French out of Spain as well as many other victories.

This photograph was taken in 1844, about 29 years after the battle and the end of the Napoleonic wars. When the photograph was taken, Wellington would have been about 75 years old.

Wellington became a national hero due to his role in the British victory and went on to serve as Prime Minister as well Leader of the House of Lords.

It is hard to read the expression on the Duke's face. Does he glory in his victory and fame? Or now that the end of his life is nearing, does he think about the thousands of men who died under his command?