29-To what extent do the Hundred Days represent a ‘change of heart’ by Napoleon?

Paragraph 1: Continuity in Napoleon’s Authoritarian Administrative Control

Point:
During the Hundred Days, Napoleon largely maintained the centralized administrative control and bureaucratic structures he had imposed before his exile, indicating little genuine ‘change of heart’ in his governing style.

Evidence #1:
Prefects and gendarmes continued to enforce strict order across France and the empire, replicating the earlier model of uniform control with little local autonomy.

Evidence #2:
The satellite states and annexed territories remained integrated under French law and administration, with no significant moves towards granting them real autonomy or reducing French oversight.

Evidence #3:
Napoleon’s administration still censored dissent, controlled the police (under Fouché’s legacy), and suppressed opposition, showing no shift toward a more liberal or constitutional governance.

Paragraph 2: Some Changes in Political Strategy and Image

Point:
The Hundred Days showed some pragmatic changes in Napoleon’s political approach, suggesting a partial ‘change of heart’ aimed at broadening support and presenting a more conciliatory image.

Evidence #1:
Napoleon’s Charter of 1815 proposed a constitutional framework with a parliamentary chamber and guarantees of civil rights, contrasting with his earlier authoritarian rule.

Evidence #2:
He attempted to reconcile with former opponents, relaxed press censorship somewhat, and promised to uphold property rights and legal equality, aiming to attract the middle class and liberals.

Evidence #3:
His proclamations during the Hundred Days emphasized national unity and peace, a shift in tone from the aggressive imperial expansionism that marked his earlier reign.

Paragraph 3: Military Ambition and Imperial Goals Remained Unchanged

Point:
Despite some political concessions, Napoleon’s fundamental ambition for military dominance and empire-building remained intact, showing that the Hundred Days did not represent a true change of heart in his core aims.

Evidence #1:
He quickly rebuilt the Grande Armée, preparing to defend France and renew campaigns in Europe, reflecting continuation of his aggressive military policies.

Evidence #2:
Napoleon rejected the Bourbon Restoration’s diplomatic settlements and aimed to overturn the post-1814 European order, emphasizing expansionist goals.

Evidence #3:
His decision to engage in the Battle of Waterloo rather than negotiate further showed confidence in military solution over political compromise.