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The birth of Napoleon Bonaparte
Napoleon Bonaparte was born in Corsica in 1769 to a noble family. His father worked to enhance their social standing, securing recognition of their Tuscan roots from France in 1771. This allowed Napoleon and his siblings access to special schooling and educational grants. Despite facing challenges due to his Corsican background, Napoleon earned his officer's diploma in 1785 from a military school in Paris. He then commenced his service in Valence, France. -
Napoleon and the french revolution
From 1787, Napoleon moved between Paris and Corsica, engaging in politics favoring Corsican unity with France. The French Revolution in 1789 brought a clash between monarchy supporters and republicans. Witnessing the rise of the First French Republic at 19, he later fled to Toulon due to loyalty to the Convention, suppressing uprisings and becoming a Division General. His experience at the storming of the Palais des Tuileries profoundly impacted his governance. -
The first Italian campaign
In March 1796, Napoleon led Armée d’Italie against Austrian influence in Italy. Achieving victories, he established sister republics, signing Treaty of Campoformio in 1797. -
The egyptian expedition
Sent by the Directory in 1798 to challenge English influence, Napoleon arrived in Egypt. Despite the victory over the Mamluks at the Battle of the Pyramids, facing local uprisings and Admiral Nelson's devastating blockade of the French fleet at Abukir Bay, the expedition suffered setbacks. Napoleon returned to France in October 1799, leaving English dominance intact upon the French departure in 1801. -
The coup d'etat
In 1799, the failing Directory sought Napoleon's aid, leading to the 18 Brumaire event where Napoleon seized power. He established the Consulate, gaining broad authority under a new constitution. During his rule (1799-1804), France saw significant modernization: creation of the Banque de France, administrative reforms, the "Code Civil," "Légion d’honneur," and extensive infrastructure development known as the "Masses de granite," enduring even today. -
The concordat
The French Revolution's suppression of Catholicism and creation of an unpopular secular cult led to societal disruption and division. Seeking civic harmony, Bonaparte negotiated with the Holy See, signing the Concordat in 1801. This recognized Catholicism as France's majority religion, reopening places of worship. However, Bonaparte gained control by appointing bishops and imposing a government loyalty oath on the clergy. -
The consulate
Napoleon Bonaparte become First Consul in 1800.
In 1804, he declared himself Emperor of France with general approval.