How Did Napoleon Affect Prussia

Napoleon Bonaparte and his ambition for conquest led to changes in history for many of the countries he had interacted with during his time. One place that he had a huge influence on was Prussia. Starting with the Treaty of Tilsit, which basically broke Prussia’s population and land in half. This was not the end of Napoleon’s treaties for Prussia, another, the Treaty of Paris was forced on Prussia. The French surrounded the borders of Prussia to force a signing onto Frederick William on 5 March 1812. This treaty severely limited the military power of Prussia. The Treaty of Paris also opened up the borders of Prussia for Napoleon and his troops, as well as Prussia having to support Napoleon with troops. With these two treaties being signed by Frederick William, the future of Prussia was greatly changed. The signings of the two documents had repercussions on other aspects of Prussia, not just their borders and military might. Although there were changes that were happening in Prussia other than the ones mentioned, they would not become obvious until almost a century had passed after the treaties. One of the most impressive things about Napoleon during his time was his
He believed that France was in desperate need of change. Napoleon once said, “What tragedy awaits me in my country! My fellow countrymen are loaded with chains! and have to bear, trembling, the weight of the oppressor's hand!” In a sense Napoleon turned the tables and France in some ways became the oppressor. One example of this is the treatment of Prussia during Napoleon’s time of power. In this way Prussia became what Napoleon thought France was before. Napoleon also supported the French Revolution believing the people should have a say in their government, but he contradicts this by becoming a somewhat of a dictator in France. Interestingly enough Napoleon’s actions are a contradiction of his