Crash Course European History: Napoleon and the French Revolution

Introduction to Revolution

• Definition: Revolution means a complete turn (360 degrees) but in history denotes radical change.
• French Revolution: Replaced absolutist govt. with another, but transformed society.
  • Shifted from subjects of a king to citizens of a community.

Napoleon Bonaparte's Rise

• Background: Poor upbringing in Corsica; learned French at age 10.
• Military Career: Entered army as second lieutenant (1785); became brigadier general by age 24.
• Egypt Campaign (1798): Attempted to disrupt Britain's access to India; mixed impact on locals.
• Return to France (1799): Overthrew the Directory, becoming first consul.

Napoleon's Reign

• Catholic Church: Concordat of 1801 established Catholicism as primary religion, secured church support.
• Dictatorship Justification: Compared himself to Roman leaders; promoted ancient Roman virtues.
• Napoleonic Code (1804): Standardized laws but restricted women's rights.
• Education Reforms: Sponsored lycées and higher education institutions.

Expansion and Conquests

• Military Campaigns: Conquered parts of Europe; ended Holy Roman Empire; imposed reforms.
• Resistance: Nationalism grew in conquered lands; led to art depicting French as oppressors (Goya).
• Russian Campaign (1812): Massive losses due to scorched-earth policy and harsh winter.

Downfall

• Coalition Against Napoleon: Defeated at Leipzig (1813); exiled to Elba.
• Return and Defeat: Brief comeback; ultimately defeated at Waterloo (1815) and exiled to Saint Helena.

Legacy

• Contributions: Modernized France's education and economy; Napoleonic code influenced globally.
• Cultural Impact: French achievements and art from the era remain influential.

Conclusion

• Under Napoleon, French reforms and military strategies left a lasting impact on world history.