NAPOLEON I The Rise and Fall of A Great Empire
Who is Napoleon? Born in 1769 Son of a noble Won a scholarship to the elite military training school in France…very successful! Not well liked because he was short, spoke with an Italian accent, and had no money
Military Advancements 1785 - When 16, he became a lieutenant. 1792 – promoted to brigadier general 1796 – commander of the French Army in Italy (marriage to Josephine) Turned undisciplined soldiers into an effective fighting force Won several stunning victories over the Austrians and forced them to sign a ceasefire (1797)
How did he become so successful? He was charismatic, energetic, & confident Able to comprehend complex issues Decision-Maker
Coup d’ etat Led a coup in 1799 and a new constitution was written Had a bicameral legislature. Executive power came from 3 consuls. He had influence over the legislature, appointed members of the bureaucracy, controlled the army, conducted foreign affairs
Coronation of Napoleon 1802 – made himself First Consul of France 1804 – crowned himself emperor (consul for life) Napoleon I
Gaining Approval Supported catholic church “Catholic Church will be preserved in its entirety” Gave land, confiscated in the revolution, to peasants
The Civil Code France’s First Legal System Stressed equality, being able to choose your profession, religious toleration, the abolition of serfdom, and feudalism It kept the people happy!
The Fall of an empire The Continental System The survival of Great Britain Nationalism of other countries Napoleon entered Russia Waterloo