Napoleon Bonaparte is 19th century Europe's greatest opportunist because after a period of total governmental revolution, he was able to take advantage of a nation's citizens who were seeking a solution from any source. France was coming from an era so awful that it was appropriately named the “Reign of Terror”, so this was an extremely weak time for the country which made them desperate for a source of stability. Brilliantly, Napoleon recognized his nation's wants and needs in order to consolidate his power along with ultimately gain control over not only France but a massive portion of Europe. Napoleon consolidated his power by using his accomplishments, promising equality and liberty, and marrying for political alliances. Napoleon's …show more content…
He ensured that all citizens would be equal under his reign, which, while the promise was not kept, initially gained him the support of the lower class. The lower class saw Napoleon as a leader who truly worked for the benefit of the people. Napoleon even reconnected France with the Catholic Church, for France was primarily Catholic, along with the majority of the rest of Europe, which showed how he wanted to restore this relationship in order for the welfare of the people. While people saw this as a reunification of church and state, this was just another way Napoleon consolidated his power, by gaining the support of Catholics. In 1810, Napoleon left his long time with in order to marry an Austrian princess which in turn consolidated his power. France now has an influence in Austrian politics, along with a new serious ally that gives Napoleon even more power. Now when the French go to battle so does the Austrian army making their nation incredibly dangerous. This also allows Napoleon to replace his own, highly experienced, troops with soldiers from