A Little Man Impacting a Massive Continent

Napoleon Bonaparte was an incredibly powerful military and political leader. He managed to expand his country of France to encapsulate most of Europe. Under his control, he would change Europe’s political, social and economic policies and standards. Napoleon’s would not only impact Europe, but it’s citizens as well. These changes would improve the lives of those coming from any social class living under the ever expanding French rule. Napoleon’s influence would benefit French and set a new standard for Europe for the future.

One of Napoleon’s major contributions to Europe was eliminating the aristocratic upper class. Churches were no longer allowed to abuse their special privileges, and both the nobility and serfdom were meshed into one social class. A meritocracy was also established, and those who were truly skilled at their craft were rewarded. This was far more beneficial to society than the previously established aristocracy. Those who were willing to work for their success were finally able to do so. No longer would a European citizen be determined at birth to be rich or poor. More citizens were able to own property and receive an education. Napoleon drastically improved the standard of living and social system in Europe.

Napoleon Bonaparte
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Not only would Napoleon change the lives of many of the European citizens, but he would also impact the political and economic systems as well. As aforementioned, Napoleon would eliminate the aristocracy and implement a meritocracy in place of it. Public works programs were in progress, and roads and canals were being constructed to better France and Europe. Napoleon established the Institute of Egypt, which would begin the study of ancient Egypt. The economy was reinvigorated as prices were controlled, trade barriers were removed, markets were stimulated and new industry was highly encouraged. With the social class being more evenly balanced, the improvements from both economical and political standpoints were easily adapted to.

Napoleon made positive impacts on France during his time in power. At the time of Napoleon’s reign, A majority of Europe was under French control. As time went on and countries were re established, Napoleon’s influence and tactics were adopted. Not only were the political, social and economic systems impacted in France, but in most of Europe as well.