Biography: Napoleon Bonaparte

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Napoleon Bonaparte is a notable historical figure through his significant influence on the political landscape of Europe during a time of revolution. Born in Ajaccio, Corsica on August 15, 1769 into a wealthy family, he was able to attend the renowned military academy of Paris, the Ecole Royale Militarie, where he graduated in 1784. His father, Carlo Bonaparte, was a lawyer and political figure who had a profound influence on Napoleon because of his governmental background as well as inspiring Napoleon to further pursue his military talent. During the French Revolution, Napoleon was promoted to the rank of general because of his efforts in battles such as the Siege of Toulon, and the defense of the new French government from rebellious French factions. Napoleon then launched a successful campaign in Italy, but failed in Egypt due to Napoleon’s recall to France. In France, he formed the first Consul which is a constitutional dictatorship which put him in power which he used to negotiate peace. During the newfound peace in Europe, Napoleon undertook reforms in the economy, the legal system, and the education system. The Code Napoleon was instituted and was an important factor in the political future of Europe because of its highly influential ideas such as rule of law. In 1804, he proclaimed himself the emperor of France and created the formidable Grande Armee intimidating other European powers such as Austria, Britain and Russia to the point of hostility. The Grand Armee dominated Europe and led to the formation of the German federation and the reform of the newly conquered French territories. The British remained the most daunting naval force but it was the Russians who utterly defeated the French in the harsh winter of 1812 lead...

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...e period which he inhabited. His political background from his father and the French Revolution both had profound effects on Napoleon’s outlook on the coalition nations because the coalition efforts to attack French ideas made Napoleon belligerent towards. The general political instability in existence in France heavily inspired Napoleon to reform the government to a more stable form factor that purely reflected the needs of the people rather than the desires of the government.

Works Cited

Wilde, Robert. "Napoleon Bonaparte." About.com European History. Web. 04 Jan. 2014. .
Grant, R. G. "France: Revolution to Empire." Battle. London: Dorling Kindersley, 2009. Print.
"Napoleon Bonaparte." History.com. A&E Television Networks. Web. 04 Jan. 2014. .

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