| Napoleon Bonaparte Essay, Research Paper
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. He was then exiled to an island in the South Ocean, called Saint
Helena. He remained there until his death in May 5, 1821, which was caused by
stomach cancer. After Bonaparte?s defeat, the European community was also at
downfall.
Napoleon Bonaparte certainly changed the structure in the European
government. He brought free public schools, universities, etc… to the area. He
was noted as one of the best dictators of all time. Throughout time, Bonaparte?s
continued to rule for years.
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