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The Weaknesses of the Directory Was the Main Reason for Napoleon's Rise to Power

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The Weaknesses of the Directory Was the Main Reason for Napoleon's Rise to Power
'The weaknesses of the directory was the main reason for Napoleon's rise to power.' Napoleon Bonaparte rose to the position of the most powerful man in France by the end of 1799. This occurred after the Coup of Brumaire during the 18/19th Brumaire of year 8, where Sieyès and Ducos, two directors, attempted to use Napoleon to overthrow the current government in order to create a new, better constitution. Napoleon, after making a speech to the council of ancients, then attempted to challenge the council of 500, the atmosphere was very hostile and soon Napoleon was attacked. Lucien, his brother, escorted Napoleon to the safety of his men, where Napoleon then called upon his men to defend him. A brigade of armed soldiers then stormed into the council of 500 and disbanded the group, therefore collapsing the current separation of powers meaning a new order had to be established. It was at this time Napoleon then outmanoeuvred Sieyès and quickly took the position of First Consul, Napoleon was now in control of France. The reasons which caused this all contributed significantly and often heavily linked to each other, the weaknesses of the directory therefore certainly was a crucial reason for this, however many other reasons were also crucial, the main reason however was Napoleon's military strengths and ambition ultimately it caused Napoleon to be chosen to take part in the Coup of Brumaire, where after all is where he finally gained the power he craved.
Weaknesses of directory
Napoleon's military strengths and ambitions were certainly the most important factors in Napoleons rise to power. The reasoning behind this judgement is because it is his amazing military mind and leadership abilities which made Napoleon stand out above the many other aspiring military men. The siege of Toulon started out Napoleon on his path to greatness by showing what a amazing tactical mind, inspiring leadership skills and roaring courage he possessed making him a clear candidate for the

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