19.4 - The Age of Napoleon Begins

How did Napoleon rise to emperor?

By 1799, Napoleon moved from victorious general to political leader. That year, he helped overthrow the Directory and set up a three-man governing board known as the Consulate. Another constitution was drawn up, but Napoleon soon took the title First Consul. In 1802, he had himself named consul for life.

What were some of Napoleon's successes while in the army?

During the turmoil of the Revolution, Napoleon rose quickly in the army. In December 1793, he drove British forces out of the French port of Toulon. He then went on to win against the Austrians, capturing most of northern Italy and forcing the Hapsburg emperor to make peace. His Egyptian campaign was a disaster, but Napoleon managed to hide stories of the worst losses from his admirers in France.

What was the Napoleonic Code?

Among Napoleon's most lasting reforms was a new law code, popularly called the Napoleonic Code. It embodied Enlightenment ideas such as the equality of all citizens before the law, religious toleration, and advancement based on merit. But the Napoleonic Code undid some reforms of the Revolution. Women, for example, lost most of their newly gained rights and could not exercise the rights of citizenship. Male heads of households regained complete authority over their wives and children. Again, Napoleon valued order and authority over individual rights.

What were Napoleon's political views?

Napoleon favored the Jacobins and republican rule. However, he found the conflicting ideas and personalities of the French Revolution confusing.

What was Napoleon's background?

Napoleon was born in Corsica, a French-ruled island in the Mediterranean. His family were minor nobles and had little money. When the revolution broke out, he became a lieutenant eager to make a name for himself.

Which classes supported Napoleon?

Napoleon won support across class lines. He encouraged emigres to return, provided that they took an oath of loyalty. Peasants were relieved when he recognized their right to lands they had bought from the Church and nobles during the revolution. The middle class, who had benefited the most from the revolution, approved of Napoleon's economic reforms and the restoration of order after years of chaos. Napoleon also made jobs available to men of talent.

What reforms did Napoleon make?

To restore economic prosperity, Napoleon controlled prices, encouraged new industry, and built roads and canals. To ensure well-trained officials and military officers, he set up a system of public schools under strict government control. At the same time, Napoleon backed off from some of the revolution's social reforms. He made peace with the Catholic Church and recognized their religious freedom.