Napoleonic Rule

Napoleon

Italian-born French leader who became a dictator and emperor for life.

Plebiscite

A yes/no vote that resulted in Napoleon becoming emperor for life.

Second Coalition

A group of countries united against France, formed by European monarchs who wanted to restore monarchy in France.

Napoleonic Code

A single set of laws for all of France, which removed contradictory laws and established equality of law and basic liberties.

Clergy

The religious leaders in France, whose status and land were improved under Napoleon's rule.

Nobility

The upper class in France, who were allowed to return from exile and regain their land and political status under Napoleon.

Bourgeoisie

The middle class in France, whose markets and trade were stabilized and taxes were lowered under Napoleon's rule.

Peasants

The lower class in France, who were provided with jobs and experienced stabilized and lowered food prices under Napoleon's rule.

Battle of Trafalgar

A major defeat for Napoleon against the British navy.

Invasion of Spain

Napoleon's attempt to replace the Spanish king with his brother Joseph as King, which resulted in resistance and his eventual retreat.

Continental System

Napoleon's plan to isolate trade with Britain in Europe, which backfired due to British aggression.

Battle of Leipzig/Battle of Nations

The battle where the Coalition defeated Napoleon in 1813, leading to his exile in Elba.

Elba

The island where Napoleon was exiled after his defeat at the Battle of Leipzig.

Bourbon family

The royal family that was reinstated as the rulers of France after Napoleon's exile, with Louis XVIII becoming King.

Battle of Waterloo

The battle where Napoleon was defeated by British General Wellington, leading to his final exile on St. Helena.

St

The island where Napoleon was exiled after his defeat at the Battle of Waterloo, where he eventually died.

Napoleonic Code

A comprehensive code of laws that replaced diverse and contradicting laws, establishing civil rights and reintroducing slavery (controversial).

Bank de France

The financial institution established by Napoleon for post-revolution economic recovery, which still exists today.

Saint-Cyr

One of France's top military academies founded by Napoleon.

Imperial Court

The court created by Napoleon to unify the judicial system in France and limit regional differences.

Louisiana Purchase

The sale of French colonies to America, which occurred during Napoleon's rule.

Arts and Culture

Flourished in France during Napoleon's rule, thanks to the establishment of universities and support for education.