The Impact of Napoleon as Emperor

Napoleon’s Domestic Policies

As Emperor, Napoleon Bonaparte centralised the French administration. Prefects, introduced by Napoleon, oversaw the local administration in the farther parts of the country.
Education was of paramount importance to Napoleon. He set up state-regulated schools, known as lycees, which served as training grounds for civil servants and military officers.
The Napoleonic Code was one of the major legal reforms instituted by Napoleon. It provided the legal framework of France and served as the blueprint for many civil law jurisdictions worldwide. It upheld the principles of the French Revolution, like equality of all men before the law, but limited the rights of women.

Napoleon’s Economic Policies

The Bank of France was established by Napoleon in 1800. This stabilized and standardized the nation’s economy, getting rid of regional variations.
Napoleon promoted and supported industry, especially the textiles industry, by imposing high tariffs on imported goods.

Impact on Religious Policy

The Concordat of 1801 was an agreement between Napoleon and Pope Pius VII. The Catholic Church was recognized as “the religion of the great majority” but not as the state religion. This restored some power to the Church but maintained state control over it.

Imperial Ambitions and Warfare

Napoleon’s desire to expand French territory led to the Napoleonic Wars. His strong leadership skills, innovative strategies, and well-trained army won him several battles, making France the dominant power in Europe by 1808.
However, his territorial ambitions led to his downfall. The disastrous invasion of Russia in 1812 depleted his forces, making it impossible for him to hold onto his empire.

Legacy of Napoleon

Despite his defeat, Napoleon’s impact on France and Europe remained. His reforms had a profound impact on France, laying the groundwork for modern French institutions.
Even after his downfall at the Battle of Waterloo and his subsequent exile, Napoleon’s influence remained in the form of Napoleonic legend, inspiring movements and leaders across Europe.