Napoleon Flashcards
(24 cards)
Who was Napoleon Bonaparte?
A French military leader (1769–1821) who rose to power during the French Revolution and became Emperor of France.
Where was Napoleon born?
On the island of Corsica in 1769.
What helped Napoleon rise quickly in the French army?
His reputation as a military genius and his support of the Jacobins during the Revolution.
What did Napoleon do in 1795?
He defended the French Revolution from a royalist uprising and was promoted to general.
Which countries did Napoleon go to war with between 1795–1799?
Britain, Spain, Austria, Prussia, Netherlands, and Italy.
How did Napoleon seize power in France?
In 1799, he returned from Egypt and led a coup d’état, declaring himself First Consul.
What was the Napoleonic Code?
A constitution written in 1802 that reformed laws and made Napoleon First Consul for life (excluding rights for women).
When did Napoleon crown himself Emperor?
In 1804, during a ceremony at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris.
What economic reforms did Napoleon make?
He created a national bank and a new currency to stabilize the French economy.
What were Napoleon’s educational reforms?
He established a public education system open to all French children.
What was the Legion of Honour?
An award created by Napoleon for French citizens who showed great nationalism and patriotism.
How did Napoleon restore religion in France?
He reinstated the Catholic Church but ensured it remained under his authority.
What public works did Napoleon commission?
He restored buildings and built monuments like the Arc de Triomphe.
What was Napoleon’s empire from 1804–1812?
A vast empire across Europe including France, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, Poland, Spain, Austria, Denmark, Sweden, and Italy.
How did Napoleon spread nationalism in Europe?
By spreading revolutionary liberal ideas while conquering territories, inspiring national pride and resistance.
What mistake did Napoleon make in 1812?
He invaded Russia, leading to massive losses due to Russian tactics and the harsh winter.
How many soldiers returned from the Russian invasion?
Out of 600,000 soldiers, only about 40,000 returned.
What happened at the Battle of Leipzig in 1813?
A coalition of nations defeated Napoleon, leading to his first exile to the island of Elba.
Who replaced Napoleon after his first exile?
King Louis XVIII of France.
What happened during the Hundred Days?
Napoleon escaped Elba, returned to France, regained power, and ruled briefly before final defeat.
What happened at the Battle of Waterloo?
In June 1815, Napoleon was defeated by a coalition of Britain, Austria, Prussia, and Russia.
What was Napoleon’s final exile?
He was exiled to the island of St. Helena after Waterloo, where he later died.
When did Napoleon die and where was he buried?
He died on May 5, 1821, of stomach cancer and was buried on St. Helena; later reburied at Les Invalides in Paris.
What is Napoleon’s legacy?
He is remembered as a national hero of France, a military genius, and a symbol of nationalism and ambition.
