Napoleon Bonaparte Research Paper

Napoleon Bonaparte

A hero is best described as a man of distinguished courage or ability, admired for his brave deeds and noble qualities. Napoleon Bonaparte, French militaristic genius is best described as a hero because of his influence on the French law system, French military and pride or France and its people. Napoleon’s introduction of the Napoleonic Code and his military domination of Europe, were all factors that allowed France to rise above and acquire an extreme pride in the country. Because of the influence he had on not only France, but all of Europe, and now the world, Napoleon Bonaparte can be considered a true hero. In 1804, Napoleon introduced the Civil Code of March, or the Napoleonic Code. This code reasserted equality of all male citizens before the law and absolute security of wealth and private property; two principles of the Revolution of 1789. This code, had a supreme impact on the middle class, and also led to the establishment of the Bank of France. This Bank of France devoutly served the state as well as the financial oligarchy. This bank gratified the needs of peasants most, as Napoleon protected their gains in land and status they had claimed during the revolution. The Napoleonic code can best be described as the starting point of Frances success and national unity. The Napoleonic Code
now is represented in not only France, but many other country’s constitutions and codes. Besides having a noteworthy effect on France’s government, Napoleon is most known for his exceptional military skills.
Napoleon’s charisma and determination brought him to the head of France, and given the opportunity to lead France to victory. Napoleon’s victories began in Austria and Great Britain (the two remaining members of the Second Coalition). In his peace treaty with Great Britain, Napoleon allowed France to remain in control of Holland, Australian Netherlands, the West Bank of Rhine, and Italian Peninsula. Although eventually Napoleon’s army suffered defeat, he accomplished more victories and acquired an extreme amount of land for
France. Through Napoleon’s impact on France’s government and military, he gained confidence for France and established a national unity. However his order and unity took a toll on women. Women were forced to being dependent of either a husband or father and had little say. Although these laws were not beneficial to women and all families, they were exactly what Napoleon needed for authoritarian rule. Through his military victories through out Europe, Napoleon gained the votes of citizens and was looked at as a hero and leader of France. Through Napoleon’s, Napoleonic Code and military domination throughout Europe, he can truly be looked at as one of France’s heroes. The irony of his success however, causes controversy after being bullied as a child and banished from his home, Corsica. I believe his struggles only made him stronger, and allowed him to prevail the way he did. Napoleon rose above what others expected of him, with confidence and pride to accomplish his passion. His commitment and dedication to military and artillery also allowed Napoleon to strive in tactics and lead him to be the great leader he is known as today.