Napoleon Bonaparte: Short Biography

Although France was left in an economic state similar to before his rule, Napoleon Bonaparte (15 August 1769

– 5 May 1821)

was a revered military genius and rose in rank to become Emperor of France and King of Italy. The Little Corporal, as he was known, was to have great might in all his endeavors and has become one of the most studied personages of the 18 th and 19 th centuries.

Young Napoleon was born in Corsica. During his military training in France and while serving as a lieutenant and captain in their forces, he often returned to Corsica to be with family and friends. At the age of 16, while Napoleon was in France training, his father died of cancer and Napoleon became the family’s caretaker. Napoleon and his family fled to Corsica to live in France when Paoli came to power and declared his rule a dictatorship over the island – and thereafter declared independence from France.

Napoleon Bonaparte climbed rank quickly in the armed forces due to his familial connections and his uncanny military knowledge, which he gained through dedicated reading. He also was influenced by the writings of Voltaire and did not practice much in the way of religion. Although he was a Roman Catholic, he often thought about becoming a Muslim after visiting Egypt.

When a riot formed in Paris, in hopes of stopping a national convention, Bonaparte was reinstated to second in command and took care of the situation – by shooting those who began marching on the capital. With his actions, he was said to have alone saved the newly found government of France and was quickly appointed the commander of the Army of the Interior. The new government was known as the Directory. With his new command, he led France to several military triumphs in Austria, Italy, the French colonies, and the Alps.

Napoleon was away from Paris for long periods due to battles and victories. In his absence, the Royalists began gaining power. In order for them not take over, Napoleon proclaimed himself dictator of France and had the full support of the military. When he first took power, peace was restored for a time. However, during these peaceful times, Napoleon carried on his attempts at imperialism, which made Great Britain nervous. The two countries went to war and finding no peace, Napoleon attempted to gather allies and form blockades on British goods.

Napoleon made numerous enemies and became an unpopular subject among other governments. He was removed from power and forced to reside on Elba Island. He soon returned to France and gathered peasants and armies who believed in his cause. When an American attack seemed imminent, he was forced in exile on St. Helena, where he led an easy life and would eventually die due to disease.

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