Several of the online readings discuss the legacy of Napoleon - from spreading ideas of the French Revolution, to awakening nationalist sentiments, to modernizing warfare and more. What is his most important legacy and why?
@ Right - Napoleon Crossing the Alps by Jacques Louis David
55 comments:
Napoleon’s most important legacy is that he was able to gain such a firm grasp over the countries of Europe in such a short amount of time. His reign over certain European territories lasted only a little more than 14 years. That is not a lot of time to leave the impression he did on the areas he controlled. Napoleon and his followers practiced a form of governing that they felt melded together the old regime of Louis XVI and parts of the Revolution. They felt that they were able to pick the best parts of each and practice them in France and other countries in Europe. The confidence in their way of governing was evident in the way they controlled the territories they acquired. There was only the French way and no other way. They measured the well being of the countries they controlled on a basis of the French standard. What ever type of culture and government they practiced in France was what the countries had to live up too. Napoleon and his followers also held one opinion and one opinion only. They never wavered and this helped make their impact on the countries even greater. It showed their confidence in their country and the way they handled their affairs. This served as an example of nationalism for the countries of Europe. Many historians say that the affect that Napoleon had upon Europe brought such cooperation between the countries that it has been unable to be matched up until after WWII. No other imitator was able to mirror his power either. Whoever tried, failed because they were unable to hold such a firm confidence in themselves and unwavering opinion amongst their followers. Napoleon and the people of France held themselves in such high regard that any country they controlled was unable to avoid Napoleon’s impact. Napoleon’s impact on the territories he reigned over in Europe was by far his most important legacy he left during his time in power.
Napoleon’s most important legacy was the spreading of his ideas/principles, such as those of the French Revolution, to the rest of Europe. This was due to his hold on the majority of the European continent. Napoleon’s empire was able to imprint these ideas on European society because of the shock that accompanied the French takeover. As the Broers reading says, the shorter the shock, often the bigger and more lasting the trauma.
One example of an idea that Napoleon and his armies gave to Europe was a sense of nationalism. This was a product of the French Revolution and was a great source of spirit for the French. However, it helped in the downfall of Napoleon’s Empire. The French introduced nationalism by becoming oppressive in the areas that they were conquering. This aroused patriotism in the natives opposed to French rule. The French also showed other European nations the capabilities of a nation in arms. This new sense of nationalism was evident in the numerous uprisings against Napoleonic rule across Europe.
Other principles of the French revolution were spread throughout Europe under the rule of Napoleon. Ideas such as legal equality, religious toleration, and economic freedom were brought to new areas and accepted. For example, Napoleon had an impact on economic thought. Although he may not have created the ideas, he was critical in the spread of these principles throughout Europe. This is evident in the similarities between the boundaries of Napoleon’s Empire, and those of the European Economic Community, founded in 1957. Overall, Napoleon’s most important legacy was the spreading of his principles throughout Europe.
The most important legacy that Napoleon left was his power to control territories. Although he only ruled for about 14 years he left an unforgettable impression and legacy. “The shorter the shock, often the bigger and more lasting the trauma”, according to Michael Broers. This is exactly what Napoleon accomplished. Napoleon was successful because he had a scares quality of high confidence. He held him self to a high respect, which made his people have a new born confidence that they were better then any other European according to Michael Broers. This new confidences would be evident in the way they rule their newly acquired territories. It was the French way or no way. It did not matter what type of government or culture Napoleon conquered, he imposed the French way. Napoleon had unmatched power, he impose his opinion on others. This ability would force the territories to work together in Napoleons favor. Because of Napoleon’s persuasive personality he was also able to create a sense of nationalism. Nationalism would help the French people unite and fight together. People had a great sense of pride to be from France, they felt they held them selves to a higher standard. As Napoleon conquered more territories the new people saw how confidence and strong the French were. People wanted to be like the French would made it easy for people to fall for Napoleon’s power. Napoleon should be remember because he was able to dominate so many territories in such a short amount of time with unquestionable power.
Napoleon wouldn’t be the legend he is if it wasn’t for his determination in the beginning of his reign. This started in March of 1796 when Napoleon, as brigadier general, takes a group of soldiers who are untrained and badly fed and molds them into an outstanding and strong army. With this army, he continued to fight against an ally, Austria, for the lands surrounding Milan. He not only gained control over the territories surrounding Milan, but he also made peace with Austria.
This fueled the support for Napoleon’s reign. If it wasn’t for creating a successful army and winning over Milan, the people of France would never respected him and he would be a military failure. From this conquest, he was considered a hero and went on to create an army to attempt to invade England. This conquest of Italy against Austria fueled Napoleon to become the emperor that he is portrayed today.
Napoleon's most important legacy was his ability to acquire so much power over European nations in only 14 years, and the lasting imprint that he left on Europe. 14 years is not alot of time for a ruler, and in those years Napoleon created an empire that was completely under his control. There had been no one with so much power over Europe before Napoleon, which possibly could have contributed to how he gained so much control. The countries that Napoleon ruled all shared a common vision on how society should be, which was based on the French society of the time. Napoleon and his followers believed that French society was the most civilized society of all of Europe and therefore the rest of the nations were always compared to France. Napoleon introduced public institutions into most of Europe, and they took root in many places. Napoleon and the French rulers were very confident in themselves, and they always believed that they knew best. The rulers did whatever they had to do to benefit themselves, and never second guessed their decisions. The amount of power Napoleon had was never matched. This is mostly because no other men had as much confidence in themselves, and couldn't gain followers with strong enough opinions. Napoleon's ability to gain so much power and leave such a profound impact on Europe was definitely his most important legacy even though he was only in power for about 14 years. As Broers said “The shorter the shock, often the bigger and more lasting the trauma."
Napoleon’s most important legacy was the creation of the Civil Code. The Civil Code was a set of standard laws for the entire country of France, whereas before laws varied in different French provinces. The Civil Code was modern, organized and deemed to be liberating by the citizens of France, unlike before in French History. This allowed for France to have more national unity under one body of law. Napoleon himself considered the Civil Code to be one of his most significant contributions to the world. The Code itself was based on aspects of European Enlightenment and the French Revolution, another reason for the importance of its legacy. The most important part of the Civil Code, or Code Napoleon was that every person in France was equal before the law. Other aspects of the code included property rights, and how the owner had exclusive rights to his property. Also Napoleon included the end to aristocratic privileges. The Civil Code had a lasting impact on the rest of Europe, and in other parts of the world today. As Napoleon’s most lasting legacy, the Civil Code is part of France’s law today.
Napoleon’s code has influenced legal systems worldwide. It has helped make civil and common law powerful. Law systems across Europe have been influenced by it. At the time of Napoleon, Europe was greatly influenced by this system. The Civil Code can be considered a starting point for other codes of law in other areas. Due to French imperialism, the Civil Code was able to spread. Besides with weapons, the Code was spread by the people in different countries. It was a symbol of French revolutionary fervor to the nations that received it. Nations such as Italy, Germany and Poland adopted it as a body of law. Even after Napoleon’s defeat, countries still adopted Napoleon’s Code, such as Belgium. Napoleon’s legacy lived on as the Civil Code represented freedom and liberty to those that adopted it. Even in America, Napoleon’s legacy has lived on. Parts of the Napoleonic Code had been adopted in Louisiana. Another part of Napoleon’s legacy was that the Civil Code prohibited ex-post facto laws, and that a person can’t be charged with something that later became illegal. This issue has been an important part of law still today and worldwide. Napoleon’s lasting legacy is that with the creation of the Civil Code, his ideas on laws and freedom have influenced modern legal systems throughout the world.
Napoleon’s rule had lasting effects on France. He has been viewed as a modernizer who centralized the government and strengthened France, but his rule also had many negative effects. His most important legacy is the troubles he left for France because he hindered its development and created resentment towards it.
The Napoleonic Wars and Napoleon’s policies slowed economic development, urbanization, and industrialization. According to Blanning, about one million Frenchmen died in the wars, and conservative social legislation encouraged late marriages and small families. These factors contributed to the relatively low population growth in France compared to other European states. Napoleon also hindered urbanization and industrialization. Protection of the peasants lead to lower agricultural productivity, compared with Prussia, where granting freedom to landlords led to high agricultural output and faster urbanization. Also, Blanning says that Napoleon’s “confirmation of the practice of partible inheritance ensured that French agriculture would remain subsistence-based and French society conservative.” Manufacturing was hurt as well because French manufacturers had depended on the resources of conquered states, so when the Empire collapsed, manufacturing suffered. In addition, Napoleon’s naval wars with Britain destroyed foreign trade. Thus, France’s economy was damaged by Napoleon’s policies.
Napoleon also created resentment towards France from other states. Conquered states saw Napoleon’s rule of as repressive because it was disruptive to their established institutions, and the French became hated oppressors. In governing other states, Napoleon abolished their administrations and established new ones, in order to centralize power. As Broers says, “Uniformity was, in essence, cultural imperialism. It trampled over local customs through administrative centralisation and the introduction of the Code, over popular Catholicism by the enforcement of the Concordat and over traditional hierarchies of power through the abolition of feudalism and the simple loss of independence to an imperial whole.” Napoleonic rule also led to increased taxation, oppression, and conscription. In addition, allied states also resented France because of its economic dominance, such as its attempt to prevent British goods from reaching Europe. As a result, Francophobia increased in Europe, and Napoleon’s actions ensured that other countries, such as Prussia and Germany, as Blanning argues, would have anti-French sentiment even after Napoleon was defeated.
The most important legacy Napolean left behind was his leadership skills and strong ability to command. He slowly rose in the ranks of the French army, until he finally named himself emporer of France.
Napolean was a great leader for the French army. He never lost a battle until he attempted to invade France. He also had the ability to train a small group of men to conquer large armies of other countries. Even when escaping the island off of Italy that he had been exiled, he took a small band of men, and made it all the way to Paris without any blood being shed, although he was met by some of the king's army.
He was also able to speak well to convince or inspire his men. When he was stopped on his way to Paris by the king's army, he stepped in front of his men unarmed and convinced them to join him. They did. Even during the battle at Waterloo, fighting against the British, Napolean was able to keep his men fighting by inspiring them with his eloquence.
Napolean had a way of commanding that was unheard of in his time, and that few have matched, even today. He was able to command a small army to accomplish spectacular things, including a coup during the revolution and conquering other lands in Europe for France afterwards. He is still known for his leadership quality and the many things he accomplished during his lifetime.
Napoleon, the conqueror of continental Europe, and the savior of the French, left behind many contributions and damages of which shaped the outcome of the age of Absolutism, and the history of Europe. At the apex of his legacies, stand his unification and rally of the French empire, and his road of victory that transformed France into a global super power.
Trained at France’s military school at a young age, Napoleon would grow up to be one of the most formidable and feared general of history. He led countless campaigns against overwhelming foes, and against impossible odds, came out with victory. His undying patriotism and loyalty to his troops and the French citizen, combined with his fiery charisma attracted many to his side. In the end, Napoleon unified France with his ambitions, and solidified nationalism in his subjects. His battle campaigns turned the armies of France against almost every major European power, dominating continental Europe. During his period of reign, France was the most glorious and powerful nation in Europe, if not the world.
Napoleon’s hasty invasion Russia, however, was one of the only blunders in his political campaign. Being out “natured” by the Russians; the ferocious winter of Russia, Napoleon was exiled out of France. This, however, showed only one thing; that France was already united and strong, and thus when Napoleon escaped back to France, the French people were ready, once again to be ruled by this great emperor.
Napoleon's most important legacy was the amount of land that he was able to aquire and how he aquired that land. He was able to do this in about 14 years, which is a very short amount of time. His "Grand Empire" consisted of France, the Spain, Netherlands, Italy, Swiss Republic, and other states. Each of these states varied in leaders, the overall leader of all of the states was Napoleon.
He aquired this land through his excellent military skills. He was able to out fight many of his opponets, which led to him winning many, and most of his battles. Napoleon also launched many attacks on his enemies at different times during the battles/wars.
He used his knowlegde to defeat many major armies and to decide when he should attack his enemies. Napoleon was able to attack Prussia and make them disorderly and imcomplete.
In the end it was Napoleons military awareness that enabled him to aquire so much land in such a short amount of time.
It is to no surprise that the time form 1789-1815 has been known as the Napoleonic Age, because it was Napoleon Bonaparte who so greatly altered the European landscape with such great cunning and military genius. But it was not necessarily his military genius that was his single greatest legacy, but it was rather his imposition of Napoleonic Code in Europe.
Prior to the Napoleonic Era, France’s legal system paralleled to the fragmented Holy Roman Empire after the Treaty of Westphalia, because there was around three hundred existent legal systems in France at the time. Napoleon Bonaparte in an attempt to unify France’s legal systems formulated the Napoleonic Code, which had harbored much revolutionary sentiment. It initiated reforms such as the abolishment of feudalism, the reaffirmation of property rights, and the elimination of status based upon birth, which led to employment based solely on ability rather than social status and prosperity. Furthermore it recognized the equality of all citizens under the law and the freedom to choose their own occupations.
The Napoleonic Code did not only create solidarity in France, in that, there were a few rather than many codes governing France, but it was also instituted into French spheres of influence such as Belgium, Luxemburg, the grand duchy of Warsaw, the Illyrian Provinces, as well as many other German territories. But more importantly, the Napoleonic Code is and has been the basis for many legal systems existing today. For example, the country of Belgium has adopted the Napoleonic Code after Waterloo and to this day adheres to it (although with few alterations). Latin American countries and even the state of Louisiana have used elements of the Napoleonic Code to form their own laws. It is henceforth the Napoleonic Code that is the most significant legacy left behind Napoleon, because it has been an archetype for the various legal systems of many countries existing today.
Napoleon’s most important legacy was his capability to conquer and maintain rule over so many territories in such a short span of time, and still have a major impact on those lands. Despite only ruling for fourteen years, Napoleon was able to leave a huge impact on all of his French territorries and lands. Napoleon had direct and indirect impact on the people of these lands, and the people also quickly felt the affects of Napoleon’s rule, but also did not feel the affect of his rule until much later. Even though Napoleon was ruling such a diverse group of people, he was able to create a centralized and uniformed government. This was accopmlished by inforcing the “Frehnch Way.” This meant that old institutions were abolished, and were replaced with new institutions such as the Napoleonic Civil Code. Napoleon was able to withstand opposition because of his confidence and the uniformality amongst his leaders. The French believed they had created the highest form of civilization by combining the best aspects of the old monarchy with the new ideas brought forward by the Revolution, and they felt that other Euorpeans success was dependent on them inheriting the “French Way.” The uniformity within leading these various gorups of people was key in mainitaining Napoleon’s power. Administrators rarely had varied opinoins on things, and everyone agreed on how a region should be governed. They never compromised, and their cultural confidence ensured that French culture and policies were being enforced to create a non-diverse French community. Because of Napoleon’s way of enforcing French uniformality, it also ensured that the impact of Napoleon would be felt equally the same throughout all of Europe. Napoleon’s rule also introuduced conscription, the Continental System and colonialism to various and isolete parts of Europe. These instiutions greatly impacted the people all throughout Europe for years to come even after the end of Napoleon’s rule. Napoleon was striving to restructure and permanently reorient the economies of his ruling lands to benefit France, and had wanted a uniformality of the “French Way” all throughout Europe. He was able to accomplish all of this and more despite such a short time ruling, something which I consider his most important legacy.
Napoleon, one of the most excellent military leaders in history, was in power for only 14 years. During these 14 years he accomplished an extensive amount. He led an admirable army, and obtained great power. Throughout his life, Napoleon was the ruler of France as First Consul of the French Republic, Emperor of the French, King of Italy, Mediator of the Swiss Confederation and Protector of the Confederation of the Rhine. Napoleon led an extensively influential and unparalleled life, reaching so many feats throughout his life. Napoleon declared, "Imagination governs the world." He has definitely used imagination with all of the institutions in which he created. Despite his military excellence, the most important legacy was certainly the civil institutions which he built all over Europe.
When Napoleon’s superior army went somewhere, they were followed by civil institutions built by the French. Because of this he implemented many revolutionary institutions. Much of modern day Europe has traces of the French because of this. Many of the current legal structures are based on Napoleon’s Civil Code, and numerous nations still rely on most of the institutions which he developed. The Civil Code was a set of laws applicable to all of France, rather than certain provinces. The Civil Code was revolutionary in that it unified France, and presented equality before the law, equality of taxation, personal liberty, freedom of the press and of religion, the Legion of Honor, the court system, and the Napoleonic nobility to all people of France. Napoleon stated "Public morals are natural complement of all laws; they are by themselves an entire code." He greatly supported the morals of tolerance, courtesy and respect.
Napoleon paid more attention to health than prior leaders. He helped start a chain of hospitals. Some other institutions that Napoleon founded were the University of France, the Concordat, which held relations between the papacy and the French Government for 90 years after Napoleon was out of power, and the Bank of France. The French police also remained unchanged after the rule of Napoleon. Two extremely important Napoleonic institutions were the electoral colleges and the judiciary. Some nations such as Germany opposed the judiciary institutions, however most people supported it. Only a true master mind could create such great institutions that are long-lasting. If France were defeated earlier, certain civil rights may not have emerged until many years later. Napoleonic institutions would never have appeared.
The most important legacy that Napoleon left was the power he had to control territory in such a short period of time. Napoleon ruled for little more than fourteen years, and yet people like Michael Broers have put his reign up to a level comparable to the Romans. The power he held in his short rule led him to shape the institutions of modern Europe. Amazingly, much of the Napoleonic reforms’ durability was based on his confident persuasion. Lands annexed to France or under Napoleonic influence were not forced among the governing classes.
Napoleon and France became arrogant with success as they had “reconciled the best from the world of Louis XIV with the new benefits of the Revolution” (Broers). French political culture was spread throughout Europe and so was its confidence. Every territory obtained soon after would have the French legal and administrative system. Imperialism of government over these territories was never compromisable. The French believed their systems were best, the only. Napoleon’s affect on Europe so many years ago is still easily seen today. In a mere fourteen years he was able to have so much power and control (not to mention an affect on Europe today). It’s amazing how a man could accomplish such a feat, making it his most important legacy.
Napoleon's most important legacy was his military achievements. During his 14 years of reign the French Empire expanded rapidly. Napoleon seized, Spain, Netherlands, Switzerland, Italy, and Egypt. Napoleon achieved all of this by his specular Military skills.
Napoleon left behind many new and amazing military innovations. Some of these innovations include the placement of artillery and the formations of his army. Through his brilliance as a Commander and his military innovations Napoleon conquered these lands.
Napoleon was also a politician leaving behind the back bone of the French Judiciary System, The Napoleonic Code. Belgium and many other countries still use the Napoleonic code in their systems.
Napoleon most important legacy was his Napoleonic Code.
Napoleon's most important legacy was his military achievements. During his 14 years of reign the French Empire expanded rapidly. Napoleon seized, Spain, Netherlands, Switzerland, Italy, and Egypt. Napoleon achieved all of this by his specular Military skills.
Napoleon left behind many new and amazing military innovations. Some of these innovations include the placement of artillery and the formations of his army. Through his brilliance as a Commander and his military innovations Napoleon conquered these lands.
Napoleon was also a politician leaving behind the back bone of the French Judiciary System, The Napoleonic Code. Belgium and many other countries still use the Napoleonic code in their systems.
Napoleon most important legacy was his Napoleonic Code.
Napolean's most important legacy was his ability to rule, and it's lasting effects on the world. At a young age, Napolean was sent to military school where his life as one of the most successful military rulers began. For approximately fourteen years he reigned over certain European nations. Fourteen years is not a very long time, but for someone to reign for a smaller duration of time and still have complete control along with a lasting impact is incredible. Not only did Napolean have a firm grasp on much of continental Europe, but also in his nation of France. At the time, France had such a diverse population with many conflicting issues, and somehow Napolean was able to keep them unified. This was attained by enforcing his Civil Code, which was a series of codes based on the period of Enlightenment and French Revolution. The most significant part of the Civil Code was that all people were equal before the law, which pleased many French. Not only did that please the French, but Napolean also ceased special priveleges to aristocrats. Other sections of the code discussed property rights, and an owner's rights to his property. Not only did Napolean himself consider this his greateast contribution to France, but so many other countries did that they put it into effect in their societies, and France still uses it today. During the Napoleanic rule, France was the most powerful nation in Europe, maybe even the world. Although Napolean is known for many things, such as: ruling, warfare, his Civil Code, etc., his greatest legacy of all is the last effects he left on France and the world.
What constitutes Napoleon’s legacy? For sure, the man imposed institutional achievements in the Napoleonic Empire—the Civil Code, his will to create a rationalized, bureaucratic, and centralized government in France, not to mention his determination to later mold the conquered empire’s land into replicas of the Napoleonic France. Certainly, Napoleon destroyed and remade, preserved and balanced certain parts of the French Revolution, and later spread these enlightened ideas to the rest of Europe. True, Napoleon did lay principles as the last of the Enlightened Absolutists in decreeing equality of opportunity to offices—emphasis was put on talent, not the hierarchy of the current status quo. And yes, Napoleon was the one who instituted conscription and the Continental System on the conquered land and those living in it. Napoleon reinvented warfare, he centralized the government, he called a sort of true with the Catholic religion. In all these things, we can see a legacy. In fact, all these points are probably closely intertwined. One causes the other; one came about with the other. Some might seem to swing with others full circle. Military…conscription…empire…bureaucracy…absolutism…enlightened ideas…Civil Code…etc.
However, in this entangling web of cause and effect, first effect and second effect, I believe that Napoleon’s greatest legacy is embodied in his very act of conquering Europe and more (in effect, a very imperialistic colonization of White man’s land and then some). By achieving this empire within his lifetime, Napoleon was reviving the spirit for conquests not seen since the ancient empire of Alexander the Great of Macedonia. Michael Broers states: “In both economic and cultural terms, the Napoleonic empire operated much more like a colonial empire than the other continental empires it challenged and temporarily swept aside, simply by deliberately directing the resources of the non-French peoples it controlled towards the imperial centre.” It is Napoleon’s harsh and yet earnest takeover of Europe that is the story that will be told that will be revered that will be his legacy… His foremost legacy is the example he set for all other conquerors with similar notions, for all other nations with similar appetites.
Firstly, his act of conquering embodied harsh tactics. Not only would Napoleon overrun some of the old institutions of Europe, he would also hold up the French culture (only after he had reinvented some aspects of French culture, of course) as the model for all the rest of Europe. He was not one to treat the old institutions as if they were made of fragile, untouchable, pure and antiquated glass. If he saw fit to change the regimes of the conquered nations, it was because he had a different set of ideals and ideas on how to make his empire a success. As Broer puts it, it was a thirst for “cultural imperialism”, or uniformity, with France as his model.
With Napoleon’s example, an age of hard and furious, “high”, colonialism awakens. But colonialism is redefined. It’s not just a mad grab for land and resources. It can be seen as the ideal wish of an ideal destined-individual to reshape other lands and regions according to his ideal. Napoleon was an individual with supreme belief in himself and his destiny. With that confidence alongside him, he conquered to strengthen more than just France’s tangible boundaries. He conquered to strengthen the intangible, ideal fate he believed in for himself and the world. Could Napoleon’s empire not have caused a sort of psychological trigger for others to do the same in the future?
In that way, is Napoleon not comparable to Hitler? Can we assume that Hitler, Mussolini, and maybe other powerful figures in Europe and elsewhere took heart and ruthless ambition from Napoleon’s example? Not only is nationalism fully born, but a more recent example of Europe as a conquering field (not on a small scale with wars over power and land) for ideals and cultural superiority led to invigorating the thought process for imperialism and colonialism.
The mere mention of Napoleon’s almost fantasy-like, action packed, and destiny-driven life is a legacy enough to support all the other effects that took place afterwards. In that way, Europe and the world is not limited to Napoleon having a hand to shape them, but the groundwork is laid for all other future potentials to take up Napoleon’s legacy, revise it or leave it the same, and add their own legacy to it.
Napoleon's most important legacy has to be revolutionizing the way wars were fought and his cunning leadership. He was able to take down large forces sometimes two armies at a time. The man spent his life studying the art of war, and it really payed off when he led his soldiers on his battle field. In his battle with the Prussian and Russian forces Napoleon would use one of his classic moves to take out both forces. According to Shosenberg, he would employ two of his classic strategic maneuvers. First, using a manoeuvre sur position centrale--maneuver on the central position--he would insert the French army between the Prussian and the approaching Russian armies. At the same time, "He would employ a manoeuvre sur les derriéres--maneuver on the enemy's communications--to interpose the French army between the Prussian army and Berlin." After destroying the Prussians he would turn his entire army around and then deal with Russia. Although to be able to do this he would need an extremely disciplined army, the fact that he was still able to place them in a position to do so is astounding. The man was a military genius. But, Napoleon was no ordinary man. He was a fearless and respected leader. When coming back from exile, with his small coalition he was able to gain the soldiers from the French Forces that were sent to destroy him just by his sheer charisma. It's hard to believe that such a man even existed.
Napoleon's greatest legacy was that he was able to conquer so many countries, in such a short amount of time. He had the determination to escape from being held captive on an island, and then gather his enemies’ men on his way inward. He was able to do this, because men respected him and his military tactics.
He was able to take control in just 14 years and although he lost in the battle of Waterloo, his enemies declared it a very close battle. This is an accomplishment considering that he was fighting two countries’ armies at the same time.
So overall all, Napoleon’s shear determination helped him through his different military campaigns and win the respect of the French citizens.
Napoleon Bonaparte is one of the most remembered people in history. He so greatly effected the time period that he lived in, they named the years from 1789-1815 the Napoleonic Age. Even at a young age Napoleon started commanding others, forcing them to conform to the way that he believed things should be. Although his persuasive methods were at some times questionable, he always inspired those under his rule to accomplish the task he set in front of them. Napoleon shaped, in many ways, the world we live in today, setting the ground work for the form of government that exists today. Even though his effect on social France is great, by far his most lasting and important legacy is that of his on the battle field.
The relatively young Napoleon took control of all of those who he held in company. He had a way of inspiring others, both on and off the battle field. Napoleon knew what it took to bring out the best in a person and get the best results from them. In the 14 years that he led others into battle, he accomplished innumerable conquests. His army was known around the world and very rarely suffered extensive losses or lost at all. His Calvary was feared by all, and was extremely well trained. One of the things that Napoleon believed in the most was a well supplied and well trained army, and this served him well. Napoleon knew that is he wanted to be the best, he had to have the best, and he did all in his power to obtain the best.
Napoleon revolutionized the way that people fought wars. He came up with original and inspiring tactics and maneuvers that astounded and confused many of the long time war veterans. His innovative mind was filled to the brim with new theories of war that others in his time hadn’t even dreamed about. His “divide and conquer” tactic was the first of its time, and through practice, was perfected.
Napoleon held many positions in his life, including serving on the First Consul of the French Republic, being Emperor of the French and then moving on to become the King of Italy. He earned all of these positions by working hard being the best in his field of choice. Napoleon Bonaparte’s legacy was that of greatness and power, uniting France under one person and attaining a power that hadn’t been held by one person for a long time. His everlasting impression that he left on the battle field was that of a scar, permanent and formidable.
Napolean left behind numerous legacies. His most important legacy was the power he had over his followers. He had the ability to instill such faith amongst the French. His armies followed him anywhere and his supporters did whatever he asked. He created a Nationalism in France that could not be broken.
This is his most important legacy because without the support of the people, none of his battles would have been won. History books would not even be able to mention his name if it wasn't for the impact he had on his followers. The backing from his armies allowed him to create such a strong hold across many European territories in only fourteen years.
The prime example of his hold among the French was when he escaped from exile. He came back to France with a tiny army. King Louis sent several thousand troops to defeat Napolean. As soon as these troops came across Napolean, he gave them a simple speech. Immediately, all of the king's troops switched over to Napolean's side.
These people were so inspired by Napolean because of his motivation and determination. Napolean was not afraid of anything. Nothing could stop him, and this led to his confidence on the battlefield. He truly believed he was the best commander in all of the world. He went into every battle thinking he was going to win.
Napoleon's most important legacy was his ability to gain lasting power over Europe during the fourteen years of his rule. Even though he was only in power for a mere fourteen years, the trauma his rule brought to the people he ruled was great. "The shorter the shock, often the bigger and more lasting the trauma." (Michael Broers). Even though he was only in power for fourteen years, which was a very short span of time for a ruler, Napoleon still managed to create an empire that was under his full control. Napoleon's rule in western Europe impressed the restored governments to bring back it's main institutions. Napoleon's rule made such a lasting impression on western Europe because it did not deal with compromise. Napoleon was such a confident leader and ruler, that his people began to feel much more confident about his power and his ways of ruling. While Napoleon was in power, the people under his rule began believed that his way was the only way to reinstate the old government. Napoleon controlled many countries in wester Europe. All of these countries believed in the same main views of politics and government. This was because they were all based off of the way that the French rulers ruled France.
Napoleon’s most important legacy was his ability to affect so much change in so little time. He ruled for only fourteen years, and in those years, he was able to improve both his country and his military.
Most of his success while in power was due to battle tactics and new methods of warfare that he created. Though the actual weaponry and technology remained the same throughout the Napoleonic Era, this time period represents the changes in which the actual wars were fought. He created new tactics by expanding what had previously been used in traditional warfare. These new forms of fighting, were much costlier, in terms of money and men, and the took place over larger areas of land. Through these improvements, Napoleon’s initial success made him comparable to even Alexander the Great. He also believed that his men should be fed better, and supplied with things to make for better living conditions. This made him popular within the French forces, resulting in better trained men.
In addition, Napoleon created the Civil Code. This code differed from previous French laws, because they were meant for the entire country, as opposed to certain providences. The Civil Code unified all of France, due to the citizens following one group of national laws. Napoleon believed that this was the most important things implemented during his time, even more so than his military feats. "My true glory is not to have won 40 battles... Waterloo will erase the memory of so many victories. ... But what nothing will destroy, what will live forever, is my Civil Code."
Napoleon's greatest legacy, and, perhaps, most damaging, was his stunning takeover of France and its surrounding countries. It was thus proved, for the first time, that a mere, common man could come close to ruling the world. Before Napoleon's time, those with the greatest power were kings or noblemen--no one of regular birth. What's more, when these men vied for power, they did not look outside their own countries. With the rise of Napoleon, this standard was shattered. And a precedent was born--one the inspired such infamous names as Hitler and Stalin. In many ways, Napoleon's actions had beneficial results. But the greatest affect of his ambition was the creation of the common conqueror.
There are few names that stand out in history; Caesar, Alexander the Great etc., but none of these names are quite as infamous, nor as fearful, as Napoleon's and those that followed him. It was expected, in Europe of the ancient and nearer past, for a king to seek to extend his lands; it was expected for lands to pass between rulers in the course of war. However, Napoleon arrived on the scene, proclaiming himself for France as a nation and the French as a people; a man of common birth, who had no claims to the government; a man, who not only rose to ultimate power in France, but then attempted to control the rest of Europe. Never before had such a man been known; one who sought not to merely expand his borders, but rather, to acquire the title of Emperor of the World.
To see the proof that this has left a lasting affect on the world, one need only look at the twentieth century. It is full of men who have followed in Napoleon's footsteps. The most terrible of all, Hitler, born a citizen of Germany, who became its dictator, and then took control of and destroyed so much of Europe; Stalin, another protelariat, who rose to power in the U.S.S.R., and extended its borders to the very edges of Europe and Asia; and a great many others--Saddam Hussein etc., who have looked upon Napoleon as their model, both consciously and unconsciously. Napoleon was in so many ways a great and generous leader; but his ambition has left behind it many ugly consquences.
Napoleon’s most important legacy was the complete unification of France, and therefore the rise of the French Republic as a major European power. Before Napoleon, France was a very disorganized nation, fresh out of war and destruction. Now Napoleon enters, and small but strong hero, willing and ready to turn France back into the great European power that it once was, and the people knew it would become. Napoleons new regime mixed the old government with a new form of absolutism. It was the French way or no way. No questions asked, no answers given. Napoleon used his master commanding skills to achieve this total control. His men would follow him to their death, and then follow him through heaven and hell if they were asked to. Even after he was banished, when Napoleon returned to France, the people rejoiced. The people loved him, and he also loved himself. Though Napoleons rule was tumultuous, he had a great deal of influence on the minds of the French people, and had a major influence on the world as well. Therefore, Napoleon’s most important legacy was the rise of the French Republic to power through the complete unification of France
Even though Napoleon's reign was somewhat short, he became one of the most important people in history and left a legacy that will never be forgotten. His determination was unmatched in his time. Starting out at a low position in the military he quickly flew up the ranks from winning so many battles and thus became a commander of the french army. Through continious victories in battle his men soon came to respect him and would show that their loyalty and respect for Napoleon would never stop. Although he lost his first battle in Russia, and suffered a major defeat his determination would not end. He suffered excile and was sent to an island were he would live there alone. Using his wit and determination to regain his authority he escaped the island of Elba. With his army of about a thousand men walked back in france he was widley accepted and was welcomed back. when the king sent out armies to fend off Napoleon, those armies did not even attempt to fight and instead ended up joining Napoleons army. His determination got him this far, but would soon not get him any farther. At the battle of waterloo Naploen was defeated. Once again he was exiled to Saint Helena where he eventually died. Napleon had determination that gave him a legacy, if it were most other men, they would have just given up after they were first exiled. But not Napoleon, for he would never loose his determination which i think gave him his famous legacy.
Napoleon's greatest legacy in my mind is his sheer, and quite possibly unparalleled audacity. From very early in his military career, Napoleon Bonaparte possessed a level of boldness beyond anything that anyone had ever seen. It seems he thought that he was simply above all the rules that everyone else lived by. Le petit caporal, ignoring the accepted method of the day, would lead the charges himself, putting himself at great risk of death. He used his extraordinary military mind to come up with tactics that his enemies could never have predicted. For instance, as an artillery commander, he chose to use the artillery as a mobile unit to support the infantry, as opposed to using them as a stationary unit. In a move of audacity that will likely never be matched, he crowned himself Emperor Napoleon I of France. In the painting of the event that he had commissioned, he told the artist to paint in the pope with his hand raised as though blessing the coronation, though he did no such thing, and to have his mother painted into the audience, though she did not approve of or attend the ceremony.
All of this goes to show that if reality was not how Napoleon wished it to be, he would simply change it. To me, this attitude is more important than any one of the many things he accomplished, because without it, he never would have accomplished a single one. Despite all of his intelligence, he likely would have been nothing more than an above-average officer with out his audacity. Nobody would have followed a small, meek man into battle like his troops followed him. Nobody would have allowed a quiet, polite general crown himself Emperor, effectively undoing all that they had fought for in their revolution. No, to rise to the stature that Napoleon did, and to effect so many changes as he did, he needed to be more bold than anyone ever was before him.
The french powerhouse Napoleon Bonaparte, although only ruling for a meager fourteen years, left behind a legacy that would immortalize his name. In the short expanse of his reign he would prove to be the most powerul man on the planet, conquering countries such as Egypt, Germany, Russia, Austria, and others. But the lasting impression he left on the world was his Napoleonic Code. This civil code would live to outlast Napoleon after his defeat at Waterloo. He is even quoted as saying "My true glory is not to have won 40 battles... Waterloo will erase the memory of so many victories. ... But what nothing will destroy, what will live forever, is my Civil Code." - Naploeon Bonaparte. The Napoleonic Code was a set of laws which Napoleon believed would benefit not only the people of France, but those he had conquered. The code consisted of provisions regarding the rule of law. Laws could only be established if they had been promulgated and a law would not be set in place until it had circulated nationally, therefore, all countrymen would be aware. The code also prohibited ex post facto laws, and allowed divorces of equal consent. A revised version of the roman Civil Law, the Napoleonic Code would prove to spread as the Civil Code of countries including Italy, the Netherlands, Belgium, Spain, Portugal, and was even Germany's first Civil Code. In fact, the modern civil laws of most European countries have been at, at the very least, moderately influenced by the Napoleonic Code.
Napoleans greatest legacy had to do with his energy, charm, and ability to comprehend complex issues. His quick decision making, keen intelligence, and conifdence influenced many people and won their support. At a very young age Napolean spent much of his time reading about past military leaders and their campaigns. This previous knowledge and understanding of the battle field is what helped Napolean gain reign over Europe in just 14 years. Napolean was also able to convince the Catholic church, the oldest and most implacable enemy of the revolution, to negotiate with him and make peace. With the siging of the Concordat, Napolean was able to gain the acknowledgment from the pope about the accomplishments of the revolution. Also, the pope agreed not to question the lands of the church being confiscated during the revolution. As a result of Napoleans intelligence and persuasivness, the Catholic church was no longer an enemy of the French government.
Napolean also influenced the completion of the sevon codes, the most important one being the Civil Code. The Civil Code reflected much of Napoleans ideas which included a uniform legal system and legal equality.
Beacuse of Naopleans intelligence and confidence many people looked up to him and sided with him. Napolean had one of the strongest armys, with full support from his troops. With this support he was able to conquer Europe in such a short period of time, and create his grand empire.
I think Napoleon's most important legacy that he left behind was the legacy of himself as a strong, intellegent, fighter. Although his contributions to the French Revolution, his ideas of nationalism and being able to have a free economy, as well as his dealings with religion were all important to shaping Europe into what it is today, but that is not his most famous work. When people thnk of Napoleon, (or myself at least) they think of a strong, heroic warrior who never gave up during a battle, no matter what it seemed like his chances were of winning. He put all his effort into stratagizing for the French to make sure he always had a unique plan to win. Although he was not a ruler for that long, he accomplished more as a leader in that short amount of time then most do in their whole life. He leaves behind a legacy of great power and strength which is something fighting men can look up to. Napoleon was a man who any man would fear if he knew he were up against his armies. He was able to charm millions in a matter of minutes. He is a true inspiration to all who ever follow in his footsteps or need a hero to look up to. The legacy isn't what bills he helped pass or what ideas he helped to create and expand, the legacy is him as a man, a true heroic fighter, and for that he will always be remembered as one of the world's greatest.
Napoleon Bonaparte’s most important legacy was the manifestation and influence of French nationalism. Napoleon governed his vast empire under a single code of French laws and customs. This included imposing French revolutionary ideals, such as legal equality and religious toleration, into the lives of all the conquered. This display of a proudly French system running most of Europe had to have been the first overwhelming exhibit of nationalism and its potential power. The successes of the Revolution are what paved the way for Napoleon’s success. The Revolution and subsequent defense of France was not fought for a religious cause or for the interests of a specific class of people—the Revolution came about and was fought for all the people of France, a truly nationalistic cause. Napoleon spread this nationalism as far as his armies could take him. As nations grew to hate the French oppression, they would look to this example and see the benefits of forming nationalistic ideals for themselves. Countries such as Germany, Spain, and Italy realized that they could take these ideas of nationalism and wield them to great effect as France had done. Blanning discusses this effect extensively in the case of Germany.
Napoleon’s empire was raised and fallen in fourteen years, a relatively short time. Therefore it cannot be said that the imperialist exploits themselves were the greatest legacy Napoleon left. While it was a shining example of early imperialism, in the long run, French occupation did not leave a direct effect on Europe. However, it is impossible to deny the indirect legacy of this period of imposed French nationalism all over Europe. Broers describes the complete breakdown of traditional customs as French language, religion, and national symbols were institutionalized. Blanning notes that at the end of Napoleonic rule, the German princes had no choice but to reverse these policies and restore their states with a strong dose of their own nationalism and modernisation. Conscription was the doom across all the empire—thousands from a nation would be forced to fight for French glory and empire.
Napoleon was a military genius who rose to success as a result of his control over the French nationalistic spirit. However, his conquests were eventually for naught and he failed to establish a lasting empire. The centralized and obnoxiously French governing of his empire was a sign of the rise of nationalism and colonial imperialism to come.
I think Napoleon's most important legacy that he left behind was the legacy of himself as a strong, intellegent, fighter. Although his contributions to the French Revolution, his ideas of nationalism and being able to have a free economy, as well as his dealings with religion were all important to shaping Europe into what it is today, but that is not his most famous work. When people thnk of Napoleon, (or myself at least) they think of a strong, heroic warrior who never gave up during a battle, no matter what it seemed like his chances were of winning. He put all his effort into stratagizing for the French to make sure he always had a unique plan to win. Although he was not a ruler for that long, he accomplished more as a leader in that short amount of time then most do in their whole life. He leaves behind a legacy of great power and strength which is something fighting men can look up to. Napoleon was a man who any man would fear if he knew he were up against his armies. He was able to charm millions in a matter of minutes. He is a true inspiration to all who ever follow in his footsteps or need a hero to look up to. The legacy isn't what bills he helped pass or what ideas he helped to create and expand, the legacy is him as a man, a true heroic fighter, and for that he will always be remembered as one of the world's greatest.
Napoleon's most important legacy was his ability to take control of a large area of Europe in such a short period of time, and was respected for it. His other legacy was how much he had accomplished in such a short span of his life, things that would have taken others their entire life, took him a much shorter period of time.
He took control of so many different countries, and was still respected by his people, and this respect was not due to him being a ruthless ruler, merely to his abilities. Even after being kicked out of the government, when he attempted to make a return his countrymen turned on the King in favor of Napoleon. Napoleon's legacy was due to his innate ability to lead an army strategically into victory, as well as his ability to be continuously followed even after losing his leadership status. All that Napoleon had accomplished in his life was so quickly he deserves to be praised for this. Napoleon should be praised for his ability as a military leader, as well as his control over the country of France as a whole. He not only accomplished what he set out to do, but he succeeded in the best way possible.
Napoleon cannot be considered just a military leader, who happened to be a country leader too, he must be considered so much more. His legacy did begin with his military power, but expanded to so much more than that. He was such a strong leader, and his legacy is unremarkable.
Napoleon had many legacies yet his most important was the ability to be one of the most feared and celebrated. During his 14 year reign over France, Napoleon made many enemies as well as allies. Through the eyes of his enemies, Napoleon was a threat to their rule and their way of life. However, for his allies he was seen as a brilliant general and tolerant ruler who knew what the people wanted. Napoleon was influenced by the Enlightenment thus knew that in order for him to gain power and keep it he had to appeal to the masses not just the ordinary citizens but his soldiers as well. On and off the battlefield Napoleon proved this point repeatedly perhaps his most famous was his march to Paris in 1814. Napoleon only started with roughly 1000 men but as he marched on, he was able to appeal to the hearts and minds of his enemies and convince them to join him in his quest for power. While as a ruler of France, he modified the government so that the aristocrats did not have most of the power but rather the common people. Thus, Napoleon's lax policies on religious and economic freedoms ensured that he would not have much internal enemies or strife when he was away commanding his troops. Therefore, to his enemies Napoleon was a threat thus his enemies formed a massive coalition to crush him. However what contributed to Napoleon's downfall was in fact his own ego, believing that he was invincible and his enemies were weak and incompetent which brought him to make grave errors on the battle field.
Napoleon was one of the most influential figures in history. Merely the name paints an image in the mind of a military man, garbed in a blue uniform and riding gallantly atop a horse into battle. Then, as the military aspect of this man is his most prominent image, so it is also his greatest legacy. The outer layer of this legacy is the effectiveness of his overall approach to warfare. It was clearly successful, if not in the end, but for a long stretch of time. His empire control, not only the original France, but Spain, Italy, and much of the rest of Europe. To gain so much land under the rule of one man is in itself incredible. But the inner core to this legacy is how Napoleon actually achieved this feat. By pulling from his study of old theories and developing his knowledge, his approach brought warfare to a new, modernized level. He did not seek just barely win his battles, but to completely overpower the enemy. With this goal as his greatest weapon, he would ride into battle without fear to drag him back. This compelled others to follow him into the fray and made him a great leader. With such a power over his followers, he was also able to keep the army well disciplined, which was essential to its success. Hence, Napoleon’s greatest legacy is, not only in the measured achievement of his approach to warfare but the immeasurable affect of his military intellect and leadership.
The most lasting legacy that Napoleon left on the continent of Europe was what lead to his demise: The nationalism that he spread to all the countries that he took over. As he passed through defeated country after defeated country, he spread the ideals of the French revolution and subjected the people to a French rule. This came to its apex with the Continental System, which the countries in Europe were not allowed to trade with the British. This ended up doing more harm to the states themselves than to the British, though. Soon people all across Europe were wondering why they should be used as pawn by Napoleon against the British. This nationalism lead to the development of Romanticism to combat the French Rationalism that the revolution was based on. Also, this nationalism that Napoleon spurred lead to another great stage in the development of Europe, the unification of the Germanic states and the unification of Italy. So not only did the nationalism lead to a social revolution in Romanticism, it also lead to the development of two new, strong countries that would effect Europe for years to come
Napoleon's legacy reaches far beyond the legacies of many great kings and princes, for Napoleon not only controlled surrounding areas, but he was also able to improve France's domestic policies. Many say that his most important achievements were his abilities to make France into a huge empire, however perhaps his most important legacy was his spreading of revolutionary ideals to France and improving France domestically.
One major improvement that Napolean made was his effort to make peace with the Catholic church. The Concordat signed by Napolean as well as Pope Pius VII in 1801 sealed the deal that peace was going to be made by both parties. Although this agreement was more beneficial to Napolean than the pope for numerous reasons, it was important to make because it offered a sense of religious stability in France.
Another very important domestic improvement which Napoleon made was his establishment of the seven codes of law for France, most notably the Civil Code. Prior to the seven codes, France's laws were very unstable for there were many legal systems. These new codes then served as a framework
for the new French legal system. The Civil Code was very important in itself because it clearly stipulated basic rights for citizens, such as the fact that they are equal before the law and that there would be an abolition of serfdom.
Napoleon's legacy reaches far beyond the legacies of many great kings and princes, for Napoleon not only controlled surrounding areas, but he was also able to improve France's domestic policies. Many say that his most important achievements were his abilities to make France into a huge empire, however perhaps his most important legacy was his spreading of revolutionary ideals to France and improving France domestically.
One major improvement that Napolean made was his effort to make peace with the Catholic church. The Concordat signed by Napolean as well as Pope Pius VII in 1801 sealed the deal that peace was going to be made by both parties. Although this agreement was more beneficial to Napolean than the pope for numerous reasons, it was important to make because it offered a sense of religious stability in France.
Another very important domestic improvement which Napoleon made was his establishment of the seven codes of law for France, most notably the Civil Code. Prior to the seven codes, France's laws were very unstable for there were many legal systems. These new codes then served as a framework
for the new French legal system. The Civil Code was very important in itself because it clearly stipulated basic rights for citizens, such as the fact that they are equal before the law and that there would be an abolition of serfdom.
Asking for the greatest or most important legacy of Napoleon is akin to asking what song the Sirens sang. Although it is not impossible to answer, the question itself poses quite a few problems. The first of which being Napoleon's demeanor as not only a person, but a great orchestrator of war and a brilliant spectacle of military perfection. His strive for excellence in everything he set his mind to, from rising the ranks of the French forces to his eventual return exile, is a legacy that befits only the best of kings and the fiercest of warriors. Napoleon is known today as the best general the world has seen, rivaled only by the doings of Alexander the Great. This in itself is quite a feat, one which has yet to be revoked by any living man. Another great legacy of Napoleon was his determination and drive to succeed. He refused to quit whenever it became most difficult for him to persevere.
The most important legacy, however, is most arguably his advancement of military strategy. Being a great general was not nearly enough for Napoleon, he had to actually revolutionize the art of warfare. Up until that time, war was a gentleman's game, in which lines of soldiers volleyed fire until one side broke ranks. Sitting and waiting to take it back, though, was proving to be quite a challenge for Napoleon. Unlike the other generals of the time, who could outfight him directly, he out-maneuvered the rival soldiers and proved that you could be a good fighter without playing the gentleman's game. This idea was brought through-out the ages as a good strategy to use, and Napoleonic techniques can even be seen in some American Revolution battles, even though it was essentially Europeans fighting Europeans. Today, Napoleon is remembered for a lot, but his lasting legacy will not be simply the way he delegated to his troops, but the way he used them.
Important Legacies of Napoleon
By William Si
The 18th century was a great age for France. From revolution to stability, the transition was made possible by Napoleon Bonaparte. From stunning leadership to a wonderful knowledge of war, Napoleon left many legacies behind, however, one of his most important ones is the power he held over the people while in charge.
Faith was not a big issue for him. In 1801, he made peace with the Catholic Church with the Concordat. With persuasion while offering other things, the Pope signed the Concordat which gave little power to the Catholic Church while acknowledging the accomplishments of the revolution. With his power over people, he recognized the Catholicism as a religion of a majority but took power over it without putting it as state religion.
Another example of his power over the people was his control over his army. Without that control and support of his army behind him, he may not have even lasted through history. The backing he had allowed him to gather and control many territories throughout Europe. From when he came back from Elba, we can see the legacy that Napoleon had over his people. When Louis XVIII sent troops to capture him, he just stood there and addressed them. “If there is a man among you would kill his Emperor, here I am!” With that, all the troops fell onto his side to the point of sending a letter stating: please do not send more troops, I already have enough.
From Napoleon’s bravery, motivation, and courage, many people were inspired and fell under him. He lead his people with a brave heart thinking that nothing could really go wrong and with that confidence, he held power over all through his rule of France.
Napoleon was a master tactician during battle and an inspiring leader. However his greatest legacy was not influencing modern warfare, or his imperialistic exploits, it was his embodiment of the French Revolution and being so determined to be the voice of the people and of France. He was unparalleled as a commander in his prime and his military prowess only further developed the feeling of nationalism that surged through France during his capricious 14 year term as Emperor of France. He was one of the first emperors in history to fully embody the feelings of the people and act accordingly. An example of this support is Napoleon’s re-ascension to the throne of France. Though he was defeated and was exiled, he somehow returned to power without spilling any blood. His determination and the respect of the nation was the true reason behind his success in life. He really brought France together at a level that hadn’t been for many years. He unified France under a single code of laws, the Civil Code, and introduced some revolutionary policies such as religious toleration and equality of justice for all. France proudly wielded their accomplishments for the rest of Europe to see and copy. Other large European nations followed suit and established laws and customs similar to France’s. Though Napoleon’s conquests left no legacy in terms of territory gained, the ideas that were spread and the nationalism that was seeping out of France influenced the way Europe would function in the future. Napoleon gave Europe a blueprint for colonial imperialism at its best and how to handle the mother country during these exploits.
Though Napoleon will be remembered as being one of the greatest generals in modern warfare, his legacy is indirect and not militarily concerned. His techniques to cause nationalism and to bring pride to his nation while going on imperialistic conquests paved the way for several nations in the future to successfully gain land and prestige through imperialism.
Before taking this class when the word napoleon was uttered the first image that came to mind was a short almost comical general with a funny hat. I would then have a vague thought of the word Waterloo and wonder where i had heard the two in the same context. After this unit on French history I now have a brief understanding of one the most brilliant military minds that the world has perhaps has ever seen.
Even during napoleon's childhood people knew that he was going to be different. After leaving his home of Corsica to go to a prestigious school he quickly was seen as a leader. Even being called out of private study to lead snowball fights. This leads up to what I consider to be his greatest contribution. The most lasting mark that napoleon left on the world was the entirely new and innovative advancements in military technique and strategy. He modernized warfare in unheard of ways. Warfare remained largely static through the Revolutionary and Napoleonic eras, but during the 18th century major changes began to occur. Sieges were becoming rapidly outdated, and a new emphasis towards the destruction, not just outmaneuvering, of enemy armies emerged. Invasions of enemy territory occurred over broader fronts, thus introducing a plethora of strategic opportunities that made wars costlier and, just as importantly, more decisive. Before wars were seen more as a gentlemanly pursuit where the better man won and everyone followed rules. Things took a massive turning point with napoleon's practices. Now wars were designed to wipe out the enemy not simply force a retreat.
Napoleon left behind numerous legacies. These legacies ranged from the spreading of political ideas to the revolutionizing of warfare as we know it. It is hard to choose his most important legacy but I believe it to be his awakening of nationalist sentiments. There are many reasons for this belief. By conquering all of the countries he did and allowing the French people and the people he conquered the rights that he did he was able to become somewhat of a peoples’ champion. His ability to gain the respect of all of France and the intelligence and skill he possessed will always be remembered by aspiring leaders. Although his empire did not last long, (some fourteen years) he was able to leave behind many examples of his greatness as a commander/general and his ability to be loved by all. How can it not show for the true person he was when he was able to regain control of France after being exiled without shedding any blood? The only tarnish to his astounding career as Emperor of France was his defeat at Waterloo, which only showed one case in which he was out generaled (and Wellington was quite a commander himself). By being such a highly thought of figure he was able to promote nationalistic sentiments very easily. People had pride in their country because they had respect for their leader. When Napoleon won a battle all of France won a battle. Thus nationalism became important and patriotism was an important factor in many peoples’ lives. As can be seen, Napoleon was a great leader, but his uncanny ability to gain peoples’ respect and admiration provided for a huge increase in patriotism of the people he ruled over.
The secret to Napoleon’s legacy was his determination and focus. Through this determination and focus he was able to accomplish amazing things in a very short period of time. He took his empire from nothing to something amazing in a very short amount of time. With his quickly-acquired success came a high level of self-respect. He was a perfectionist who held himself to only the highest standards. This behavior was evident in the way in which he governed his empire. He gave his subjects two options: the French way or no way. No matter what type of government he came to control be it a strong absolutist state or weak republic the same rules applied. This uniformity, among other things, helped to create a strong sense of French nationalism. Frenchmen (and woman) had a newfound pride for their country that they had not experienced in decades. The main source of their pride was their seemingly omnipotent leader. What Napoleon should be remembered most for is creating such a strong sense of French national pride, and effectively and efficiently conquering as many territories as he did.
Napoleon Bonaparte’s most important legacy was his establishment of the Napoleonic Code. In 1800 Napoleon assigned four renowned jurists the task of consolidating all of the French civil law into one set of laws. Napoleon knew that the existing laws were confusing, inconsistent, and chaotic to the French people, as they were dependent on local customs and granted special favors and privileges to selected citizens. The Civil Code, which was enacted in 1804, was a sole code that replaced hundreds of localized codes that existed under the monarchy. Renamed the Napoleonic Code in 1807, the Code was based on some earlier French laws, Roman law, and Germanic law that had been used in northern France. The Napoleonic Code confirmed most of the revolutionary objectives, by recognizing the equality of all civilians before the French law and the removal of privileges based on birth. Individual citizens were able to select their own job professions and employment in the service of the state was based on capability rather than social position or affluence. The Code confirmed the right to property acquired during the Revolution and terminated the manorial obligations of the peasants, eliminating feudalism and serfdom. Freedom of religion was also restored. Prohibiting strikes and various trade unions protected the interests of employers. While the “Civil Code” clearly reflected the revolutionary objectives for a consistent legalized system, it reversed the advances made by women during the Revolution as it reaffirmed the paternalistic character of French society. Women and children were legally reliant on their husbands and fathers.
Napoleon was able to extend use of the code to the lands outside France that he controlled, including northern Italy, a portion of the German states, and the low countries of Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg. The code was successfully implemented in other regions such as Spain, Latin America, and in all of the other European nations, with the exception of England, where the Common Law was adopted. Indeed the Napoleonic Code was a model for successive laws during the nineteenth century in twenty-four countries. The state of Louisiana and the province of Quebec have derived many of their laws from the Napoleonic Code. This code provides the structure for the legal system in France today, which portrays how influential and resilient it has been for French society as well as many others. The ideals of the French revolution have endured long after Napoleon’s demise as a result of this body of law.
Napoleon Bonaparte was amongst the greatest historical individuals in European history. He had influenced a colossal change in his nation in various ways, through being a tremendous leader of his war torn nation to one of most incredible military generals of his time. Napoleon’s unification of France was among the many supreme legacies he had left behind in his short lifespan, which eventually led to France emerging as a major power amongst European nations.
Napoleon trained at a French Military School at a fairly young age, which marked the beginning of his epic journey. Over the years Napoleon grew up to become one of the most triumphant as well as victorious generals in European history. Bonaparte led various military movements against the many dominant rivals, defied the odds, and concluded operations both successfully as well as gloriously. Napoleons loyalty and devotion toward his nation and its people fascinated many individuals to join his cause. Thus fulfilling his objective through the unification of France and placing patriotism into the hearts of his followers. Under the achievement of Napoleon’s military objectives, France had emerged as dominant power in Europe.
Many accepted Napoleon as a savior of the French, the vanquisher of Europe; some even went on to say that his accomplishments where far greater than those of Alexander the Great. However his greatest success was how he had unified the people of France which ultimately led to French supremacy in continental Europe.
Napoleon Bonaparte was one of the greatest leaders of all time. All the things that he contributed to the history of France and to the history of Europe are undeniable. But I feel that his important legacy was his sense of nationalism.
Napoleon broke him a great ability to wage war. But along with that was his sense of nationalism. When he moved his way across the European continent he instilled in the conquered countries some of the French identity. Countries such as norhern Italy, Egypt, and Germany were conquered by Napoleon and Napoleon left with them the laws and culture of the French society.
Now eventually Napoleon was defeated and i put some of this on his great sense of nationalism. I say this because due to his placement of French sociey of other nations, nations realized that they weren't France and wanted to be themselves. The rules that Napoleon was placing on these nations weren't nessecarilly what they want and that is what pushed them to hate Napoleon. Even though he was hated by surrounding nations his sense of nationalism was what pushed other nations to establish themselves. This nationalism is what I feel has helped to shape the nations of Europe.
Napoleon’s most important legacy was that he was able to achieve a solid influence over the countries of Europe in such a short amount of time. While his reign over certain European territories lasted only 14 years, he left an unmistakable imprint there. This meant that the impression he left was founded very quickly and held. Napoleon had created a form of government that combined the old regime of Louis XVI and parts of the Revolution. Napoleon was able to pick out the best of what he saw in old France and use it to create a new. His world renowned confidence was critical in making this work. The territories he conquered had one choice, the French way or no way. It didn't matter what form of government the he had conquered, he treated them the same. Napoleon had unmatched power and confidence, which he used to force his will on to others. This ability would make the conquered lands work together in Napoleons favor. It created a sense of nationalism and gave the people a pride and purpose that they had not felt under the other regimes. This allowed Napoleon to unite the country and to fight as a larger unit. This unity also led it to be hard to defeat the France, because they were all fighting as one and not as individuals. Also people now found a great sense of pride to have from being France, because they were unified under such a great ruler. Once they had pride in them selves they held themselves to a higher standard. Napoleon and the people of France held themselves in such high regard that any country they controlled was unable to avoid Napoleon’s impact, which gave them more to be prideful of. What they created was a cycle that fed itself. Napoleon created a sense of pride and unity over the places he conquered and France that would go unmatched for decades. Napoleon’s most important legacy was that he was able to create unity where he conquered in such a short time.
Known as one of the greatest historical figures that Europe will ever see, Napoleon Bonaparte accomplished several feats during his time that allowed him to leave behind many important legacies. Through his determination and focus, he was able to spread his own nationalist ideas and military ways in his conquest of the surrounding countries and states. He began to develop his legacy as a leader throughout his youth, especially during his time spent in military school. As he grew up to became the leader of France he was able to incorporate his knowledge of warfare to surrounding lands, establishing himself as one of the most brilliant military minds of his time. While these innovations in military techniques proved to be very influential, I feel that his greatest legacy was his ability to spread nationalist ideas and the respect he commanded from his people because of it. Wherever he went, Napoleon brought along French laws and forms of government which were immediately ingrained in that countries society. By spreading France’s policies and ways of living he created a sense of conformity among many nations that was unmatched by any other leader. Napoleon was also able to instill a level of confidence among his people because of the great ruler that he was. Their respect in his ability to govern them was unparalleled to any other leader of the time. Who else can say that they were able to come out of exile and rule his country once more, because the people displayed such loyalty to him? The people’s backing of his doings was what pushed him to conquer more land and spread French beliefs in new ways. Thus, Napoleon’s greatest legacy was his spread of nationalist ideas to the lands he conquered and the respect his people gave him because of it.
Napoleon’s greatest legacy was his impact on French nationalism. France never had such a charismatic and inspiring leader like Napoleon. His poise and grandeur inspired his nation to be great. This legacy carried on well past Napoleon’s years. The French continued to be one of the strongest nations in Europe. French imperialism later in the 19th century was inspired by Napoleon. That might seem strange, but during Napoleon’s reign a surge of nationalism occurred in France. This surge continued despite Napoleon’s fall and inspired France for over a century. That is Napoleon’s greatest legacy. The true principles of the enlightenment were proven in America, not in Europe until quite a bit later. Napoleon’s territorial gains were only temporary, and for the most part not held by France. However, Napoleon inspired a people for over a century, leaving the greatest legacy in French history.
Napolean's most outstanding legacy was his military tactics. Napolean would have been no one if not for his military strategy. He dominated much of Europe with his armies and ripped through opposers. Who knows what Europe would be today if not for Napolean's army and their domination.
His military strategy opened the doors for new revolutionary ideas such as legal equality, but Napolean would not have gotten there if not for his military strength and smarts. HE never would have been able to reach his ideas to the coast if not boasting the power he had to back him and his head up.
Napolean's obvious domination in the military field opened up the dorrs for all of his other accomplishments and is his greatest legacy he left to the world.
Post a Comment