Napoleon Bonaparte

Definition

A French military and political leader who rose to prominence during the French Revolution. He led several successful campaigns during the French Revolutionary Wars and became Emperor in 1804, leading France against various coalitions in what are now known as the Napoleonic Wars.

Related terms

French Revolution: A period from 1789-1799 when social and political upheaval took place in France, leading to a shift from absolute monarchy to a republic that eventually paved way for Napoleon's rise.

Code Napoléon (Napoleonic Code): The civil code enacted under Napoleon I which reformed French law, influencing legal systems across numerous countries worldwide.

Elba Island Exile: After his abdication as emperor, Napoleon was exiled to Elba Island in 1814, only to escape and return to power briefly in 1815.