Napoleon is victorious and seizes control of France as a consul (dictator)
Absolute Rule
Despite overthrowing the absolute King Louis XVI in 1792, the people of France now support Napoleon as an absolute leader. Why?
They would rather have peace and order than bloodshed and uncertainty
Napoleon as Emperor
In 1804, Napoleon crowns himself Emperor of the French by grabbing the crown out of the Pope’s hands.
He also crowns his wife Josephine Empress as well.
This signified his power over the Catholic Church
His Divorce
At dinner on November 30, 1809, he let his wife Josephine know that “in the interest of France” he must find a wife who could produce an heir (son). Josephine was devastated. They soon divorced.
On March 11, 1810, Napoleon married 19 year old Marie Louise, an Austrian princess.
This proved to be a wise move, allying France with Austria.
Napoleon’s Accomplishments
Built largest European empire since Rome
Sold Louisiana Territory to U.S. in 1803 for 15 million.
Due to Napoleon’s new policies and conquests, nationalism (intense love & pride in one’s nation) in France was at an all-time high.
But in areas defeated and conquered by France, a strong feeling of hatred towards Napoleon arose. People began to join together as one to fight against France.