”The most dangerous moment comes with victory.” —Napoleon Bonaparte Emperor of France 1769 – 1821  ”The most dangerous moment comes with victory.”                                                                       —Napoleon Bonaparte

Vocabulary Napoleon Bonaparte Nationalism Napoleonic Code Continental System Scorched-Earth Policy Battle of Waterloo

Napoleon: Background The French Rev. allowed Napoleon to rise from a lieutenant to Commander of the French Army by age 27. Napoleon crushed the Austrians in North Italy. Becomes a national hero. Invaded Egypt to cut off British trade routes to Asia. Economic Warfare Nationalism gives him a great advantage.

Napoleon: Rise to Power Napoleon leads a coup d’etat (overthrow) of the Directory. Makes France a republic (sort of) and appoints himself first consul. Becomes leader of France at age 30 He allows the men of France to confirm him. Wins 3 million for and 1,500 against.

Napoleon Crossing the Alps By the French artist David

The Napoleonic Code His law finally achieves the goals of the French Revolution. Legal equality, religious toleration, and economic freedom were enforced in his empire. No more special privileges. This becomes Napoleon’s greatest legacy Basis for law through out Europe Make peace with the church Returns their property and traditions

Emperor Napoleon I Eventually he does away with the Republic. Changes France into an empire. Crowns himself Emperor of France. Is approved overwhelmingly in a national plebiscite. (vote)

Napoleon’s Empire Napoleon used his military expertise to take over much of Europe. He was never able to defeat England militarily and economically. This would lead to his downfall.

France vs. England Napoleon’s inability to take Great Britain would always cause trouble. Loss at Trafalgar The Continental System attempts to cut off all trade with Britain. Leads to a war with Russia. Battle of Trafalgar

The Collapse of Napoleon Napoleon made a mistake and invaded deep into Russia in winter. Russia uses Scorched Earth Policy to defeat the French Only 40,000 of 600,000 troops survive. Nationalism leads to his eventual defeat. It inspired countries under Napoleon’s control to revolt against him. Defeat a weakened French Army.

The Final Attempt at Empire Napoleon abdicates and is exiled to Elba Louis XVIII was given power in France. Napoleon escapes and returns to France Raised an army & takes Paris. Defeated for the last time at Waterloo by the combined forces of Europe. He was then exiled to the island of St. Helena off the coast of Africa.

Effects of Napoleon He finally achieved the goals of the French Revolution, and spread them throughout Europe. Even when the Monarchs returned to power most of his reforms stayed in effect. He showed the power of nationalism, and the effects it could have on a nation.