Napoleon Bonaparte I (Think Before You Act)

Napoleon Bonaparte (August 15, 1769 - September 21, 1840), known as Napoleon Bonaparte I of France, was emperor of France from 1804 to 1840, was one of France's most well-known people and also one of the most famed world leaders.

In 1769, Napoleon was born in Corsica to a noble Genoes royal family, but learned to be an artillery officer at mainland France. He was originally a military and political leader during the French Revolution. Under the First French Republic, he rose in terms of poltical power. He fought battles against the First and Second Coalitions. In 1804, he led a coup overthrew the provisional government, and Napoleon crowned himself emperor.

Under Napoleon, France one a series of striking victories that led to its dominance over the European continent. Using alliances and French client states, Napoleon managed to establish a sphere of influence in the region. Back home, Napoleon estblihed the Napoleonic Code, which reformed French laws and is still in place today, though it has been changed and reformed numerous times.

Despite the victories Napoleon achieved, he also had painful losses. The Peninsular War and the Battle of Trafalgar weakened the Garnd Armee and the French navy. Threats from Russia forced Napoleon to establish a cease-fire with all of the nations involved in the war. Although some countries were hesitant, especially Britain, at least it brough relief.

While the peace was in effect, Napoleon secretly rebuilt his army and navy and improved on it. However, by the time America declared war on Britain and Spain during the War of 1812, Napoleon took advantage of this by attacking the two countries, starting war all over again. However, with British and Spanish support low, Napoleon managed to get the upper hand and managed to squash the Sixth Coalition. By the end of the war, all of Europe (except France's allies) were all under Napoleon's control.

After the war, Napoleon established the Imperial Plans, which promoting building infrastructure, help provide jobs to former soldiers, and rebuilt and encouraged industrial and economic growth. Also during peace time, Napoleon established trade agreements with America, creating bond between the two countries. Napoleon also established a secret police force that was to eliminate all separist and opposition movements on the empire.

By the time Napoleon died in 1840, he left a legacy for Europe and the world. The French culture and influence spread around to many nations, allowing France to gain a very large status in terms of world power.