Napoleon's Political Regime and the Consulate

Vocabulary flashcards covering the political structures, institutions, and key concepts of Napoleon's Consulate and the transition to the French Empire.

Plebiscite

A direct vote of the people in response to a measure, law, or question posed by the government.

Authoritarian regime

A political regime characterized by the refusal to tolerate political opposition.

The Consulate

A political system established by Napoleon that maintained the appearance of a democracy, but was in reality a personal regime where he held all powers.

Universal male suffrage (under the Consulate)

An electoral process where male citizens voted for candidates who were subsequently chosen and appointed by the executive power (Napoleon).

Legislative power (under the Consulate)

The branch of government divided into four separate assemblies, which Napoleon could bypass by holding a plebiscite.

Constitution of 1799

The governing constitution validated by Napoleon through a plebiscite to establish and legitimize his personal rule.

1804

The year in which the First Consul Napoleon became Emperor, instituting an authoritarian imperial regime.