In a picturesque field near Waterloo, Belgium, Mark Schneider, an American war re-enactor, took center stage as Napoleon Bonaparte, leading a massive re-enactment to commemorate the 210th anniversary of the historic battle. Dressed in a classic military uniform, complete with a bicorne hat, Schneider commanded respect from a battalion of 2,200 actors, all dressed in period military attire, amidst an audience of 17,000 spectators. While Schneider possesses the imperial stature of the French leader, his thick American accent drew bemusement from some onlookers, including event organizer Arnaud Springuel, who noted, “The public doesn’t expect that from Napoleon.” Despite this quirk, Schneider, hailing from Long Island, triumphed over contenders from France and Italy to embody the legendary figure. His commanding presence and authenticity enabled him to capture the essence of Napoleon, making the event a noteworthy homage to a pivotal moment in European history.
Re-enacting History: American Napoleon Strikes a Chord at Waterloo
Re-enacting History: American Napoleon Strikes a Chord at Waterloo
An unusual twist on history as an American commands the role of Napoleon at the renowned battle re-enactment in Belgium.
Schneider’s unique portrayal and the scale of the re-enactment resonates with audiences, who cheer the invocation of "Vive l’Empereur!" that echoes across the battlefield. It highlights not only the cultural fascination with Napoleon but also the growing trend of historical re-enactments that bridge gaps between generations and nations.
