Napoleon's Failure to Dominate Europe

A ruler\'s reputation comes from the change that he inflicts upon his subjects, territory, and surrounding lands. Napoleon Bonaparte rose into power during the French Revolution, causing drastic changes not only to France, but to the rest of Europe as well. His domestic and foreign policies were not always successful, but his ability to rule was undeniable. From his rising in power and reform of France, up until his military defeat in Russia, Napoleon succeeded in gaining a considerate amount of power and control.





In France, Napoleon used his power to make many reforms in all aspects of life. He incorporated a national bank, public schools, and constructed new roads. With these changes, he also enforced the Concordat of 1801 and the Napoleonic Codes of Law. While the Concordat focused mainly on Church affairs, the Code Napoleon covered a broad spectrum of new ideas and reforms.





Code Napoleon made France \"more peaceful at home than it had been for many years,\" (Modern Times 58) and it was one of his \"most lasting domestic achievements.\" (World History 641) It was made to have one code of laws for all of France, instead of many separate legal systems. The Civil Code recognized each individual\'s equality and privileges. Some other changes included the supporting of religious toleration, right of divorce, and civil marriage. Private property, inheritance, and business laws were affected as well. Promotion for civil and military offices was based on ability only. The new laws basically applied to the bourgeoisie and landowning peasants, so the clergy and nobles did not benefit much from this act. Also, the Civil Code limited some of the rights of women. Divorce was made more difficult for them, and after marriage, the husband had control of their property. \"In lawsuits, they were treated as minors, and their testimony was regarded as less reliable than that of men.\" (World History 641) Also, there were \"limitations on personal...