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The Birth of a Legend
Napoleon Bonaparte was born into an Island in the Mediterranean known as Corsica in the year of 1769 on August 15. His birth marked the year of the greatest conqueror and most determined political leader in Europe that the world has ever seen. This event led to many successes and many failures but all of them being legendary. -
The Beginning of Napoleon Bonaparte's Rise
A significant moment in Bonaparte's life was when he was named the commander in chief of the French army. It was his chance at power and the chance to lead. The reason this is important is because this caused the boldness of organizing a coup against the Directory which eventually led to needing a new government named the Consulate. Napoleon was named as First Consul. His voice was now more valid and because of his actions he was being more recognized. -
Napoleons Reward
After a few years, the Consulate had now become an Empire with Napoleon named and declared as " Emperor of the French". He was then properly given a coronation alongside his wife, Josephine, in Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris during the month of December. Bonaparte's ambition had now earned him a high place where people respected, admired or even praised him. He had officially become a person to be remembered. -
Victory is Served
During the Battle of Austerlitz, Napoleon defeated forces of Tsar Alexander II, Emperor of Russia. He also defeated Francis II, the Holy Roman Emperor. This was huge move for Napoleon and it seemed glorious even, how he could defeat two great Emperors and still survive. His determination and strategy were praised after the battle. -
Bonaparte's Thirst for Power
Napoleon divorces his wife Josephine because she is unable to provide an heir. Napoleon truly loved Josephine deeply. He even wrote love letters while he was away and visited her whenever he could. But, he gave her up because Josephine didn't provide him with what he truly wanted, someone to inherit his glorious legacy. This proved that Napoleons ambitions had grown larger to the point where he would give up his true love for more power. -
Devastating Defeat
Napoleon invades Russia and brings along more than 500,00 soldiers. A great amount of them starve or freeze due to the harsh winter. Napoleon had no choice but to retreat. This was the start of his downfall and a great stain on his name. -
The End
Napoleon was defeated by greater enemies at the Battle of Leipzig in 1813. Napoleon then abdicates and is exiled to a a Mediterranean island that he later escapes. Once he does, he claims the French throne and fights at the Battle of Waterloo and suffers a crushing defeat. He is exiled once more and dies at the age of 51 on 1821. Napoleons ambition drove him to greatness but the further he rose the harder he fell. He wanted all that comes with glory and he suffered greatly for it.