Which historical event is associated with the term "Waterloo"?

The term "Waterloo" is intimately connected with Napoleon's final defeat, which occurred at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. This battle marked the end of the Napoleonic Wars and led to the downfall of Napoleon Bonaparte, who had been a dominant figure in European politics and warfare. The significance of this event extends beyond its military outcome; it symbolized the conclusion of an era of significant conflict and the reestablishment of stability in Europe. The phrase "meeting one's Waterloo" has since entered the lexicon, denoting a decisive or final defeat in various contexts, thereby solidifying the term's association with this pivotal historical moment.

The other options do not relate to the events characterized by the term "Waterloo." For instance, a significant naval battle refers to engagements such as the Battle of Trafalgar, not relevant to the context of Napoleon. Similarly, there is no direct connection between Waterloo and the founding moments for democracy or the start of World War I, which was a separate historical episode occurring much later.