Napoleon Bonaparte

Napoleon Bonaparte

On November 9-10 1799, Napoleon Bonaparte and his colleagues joined

together a conspiracy against the government. They seized power and established

a new system. Bonaparte and others were known as the Consulate. Bonaparte, as

first consul, had almost absolute rule. He became emperor in 1804. Thus,

changing Europeans society from a monarchy to a dictatorship form of

government.

As emperor, Bonaparte won several battles for Europe. He helped the

society of France, rising all classes of society such as the Middle Class. Bonaparte

was very liked in Europe.

While in rule, the Code Napoleon was established as law. Feudalism and

serfdom were abolished, and freedom of religion was established. Each state was

granted a constitution. Schools were put a centralized government, making all

public schools free of charge. He also established universities, postal offices, and

roads.

In 1812, Bonaparte launched an invasion of Russia that ended in a retreat

from Moscow. After that, all of Europe united against him. He continued to

fight, but it was impossible. On April 1814, his marshals refused to struggle.

Napoleon suggested a demotion, where his son would take over. It was not

allowed and he was exiled to the Mediterranean island of Elba.

Bonaparte was determined to make a come back. In March 15, he escaped

from Elba, went to France, and marched in Paris. He won over the troops sent to

capture him. Bonaparte promoted a new democratic constitution, and everyone

fled to support him. He wanted peace in Europe, he asked his allies if they could

just reconcile their difference, they all declined his offer. After that, Bonaparte

thought it would be best if Europe was the first to strike. Bonaparte could not

follow through with this idea. In Belgium, which ended in defeat at the Battle of

Waterloo on June 18, 1815. Europeans withdrew their support for Bonaparte.

He reached Rochefort, where he surrended to the captain of British battleship

Bellerophon.