Napoleon Bonaparte

Napoleon was one of the most important figures in European history. As one of the greatest military leaders, Napoleon did many things to modernize the European nations he ruled.

In 1769, Napoleon Bonaparte was born in Ajaccio, Corsica. His middle class family was of Italian descent. After completing his education, Napoleon went to France to become a solider.

In Napoleon's first battle as leader of an army, he became famous. By pointing artillery at the British, Napoleon drove them out of Toulon. The Directory then sent him to Italy to attack an army of Austrians. After this victory, Napoleon gained more fame and was known as a hero.

Along with his brother and soldiers, Napoleon carried out a Coup D'etat. Coup D'etat is an illegal take over of the government by the military. Napoleon then gained the title First Council, or dictator of France.

During his dictatorship, Napoleon developed a system of laws called the Napoleonic Code. Under these laws, all citizens were considered equal, were granted freedom of religion, and were ensured jobs according to their ability. The laws also helped to establish the bank of France. Paper money was provided for the first time, and citizens were required to pay taxes. Napoleon also enforced laws of the revolution. Aside from the development of the Napoleonic Code, Napoleon developed a Lycees'. This was the beginning of the public school system.

In 1805, Napoleon was involved in a series of wars. The first was the Battle of Trafalgar. In this war, Napoleon was defeated by the British navy. This defeat ensured Britain's control of the seas. Next was the Battle of Austerluz. Napoleon defeated an Austrian Army three times the size of his. This was considered his masterpiece victory.

After these two battles, Napoleon crowned himself emperor of the First Empire of France. It was then that he adopted the name Napoleon I. As the emperor, Napoleon developed the Continental System. This system forced all countries controlled by France to close their ports and forbade trade with England. This was done because England was Napoleon's mortal enemy.

In 1808, Napoleon began his conquest of Spain. The Guerilla war led to an uprising by the entire population. French troops, were raided and killed by the Spanish. The French retaliated the attack with executions.

Two years later in 1810, Nationalism became an issue in Germany. Small German