Napoleon Bonaparte And The French Revolution

In John Hall Stewart’s A Documentary Survey of the French Revolution, Lavisse and Rambaud’s Histoire Générale, and Paul Hassell’s Internet Modern History Source Book, three sources that contain speeches, letters and other documents from the general, describe the views and opinions of revolutionary ideals from the French leader, Napoleon Bonaparte, as well as his intentions and final outcome. The evidence given within the texts provided readers with insight on Napoleon’s thoughts and plans for the future of France. It is seen that Bonaparte was all for revolution and the prosperity of his nation, taking action for the well-being of the state. He stayed align with his goals and motives but lost sight as he took advantage of his power for his

He spoke greatly of his army as he spent a majority of his life serving and leading the French army. Bonaparte believed that his soldiers were not appreciated by the French government. He mentioned that he planned to guide his men into the right path of respect, riches and recognition. In addition, he told his army to respect those that they freed and to control those who caused pain and plundering . This general statement portrayed that Napoleon was being sincere with his intentions to the public and his regiment as he showed them all respect. Following, Napoleon spoke out to the Italians, expressing the purpose of France in the war as he mentioned, “we wish only to crush the tyrants who enslave you.” In this statement, Bonaparte declared that his army was at war for the sake of fighting for the liberty of all rather than the overtake of the nation. Moreover, Napoleon seemed to set his heart on liberation and allowed it to become a goal he needed to accomplish. In his speech to the Council of the Ancients, Napoleon preached that they should not allow their past events to affect their present day and the government should have been built on true freedom that would have represented the nation greatly. Here he spoke of the liberty he sought from the government. This is an example of Napoleon’s push toward revolution for his people. Overall, Bonaparte put actions to his words for the sake

Although he was able to convince the public that he was all for revolutionary ideals and the greatness of France, Bonaparte’s dominate traits took the best of him. In November of 1799, Napoleon took the courage to approach the Council of Five-Hundred alone as he wanted to remind the public of their will and power. He encountered many on his way to speak to the council, only to claim that he would not dedicate himself to one party. This risk of entering alone was Napoleon’s method to show the people of his bravery in action of leading. Though he should have known that defenders of the law would come after him, he performed such a stunt to show himself off as a new Consul as he received applause. His refusal to accompany a single party was a hidden sign that he could not dedicate himself to any group aside from the troops that follow him and his desires. Writing to his brother, Jerome Napoleon, who he placed as the King of Westphalia, Napoleon voiced his opinion and choice to take back Westphalia for his own power needs and reputation. Instead of sharing his wealth and influence in politics, Bonaparte brushed off Jerome’s authority and stated, “You must faithfully observe it. I am concerned for the happiness of your subjects … it affects your reputation, and my own, but also for its influence on the whole European situation.” This demand degraded his own