E.H. Gombrich 'A Little History of the World' 35. The Last Conquerer part 1

This paragraph introduces Napoleon Bonaparte, a Corsican lawyer's son who became one of history's most remarkable figures. Born in 1769, Napoleon's early life was marked by poverty and isolation, which fueled his determination and ambition. His military career began at age 10 when he was sent to a French military school. Despite his struggles, he excelled and eventually became a second lieutenant in the French army. As the French Revolution unfolded, Napoleon's strategic brilliance in the siege of Toulon earned him the rank of general. However, political shifts led to his temporary fall from grace. With the support of the Paris Directorate, he rose again, quelling a royalist rebellion and solidifying his status. His Italian campaign showcased his military prowess, leading his poorly-equipped troops to multiple victories and the conquest of Northern Italy.

Napoleon's ambition led him to expand his influence across Europe and beyond. After a brief encounter with the Austrians at Leoben, he returned to Paris where he proposed an invasion of Egypt to undermine British power. His successful campaign in Egypt, despite the loss of the French fleet at the Battle of the Nile, elevated his status. Napoleon's coup in 1799 led to his appointment as the ruler of France, and he implemented significant reforms, including the establishment of the Napoleonic Code. Victories at Marengo and Austerlitz further expanded his empire, and he was crowned Emperor in 1804. His family members were given various European territories to rule, and he continued to wage war against his enemies, including a successful campaign against Austria and the establishment of the Confederation of the Rhine, effectively ending the Holy Roman Empire.

The final paragraph details the challenges and eventual downfall of Napoleon's empire. His imposition of the Continental System, an economic blockade against Britain, led to conflicts with other European powers. Despite initial successes, including the defeat of the Prussian army and the installation of his brother Joseph as king of Spain, resistance grew. Nationalist uprisings, such as the Spanish guerrilla war and the Tyrolean rebellion, highlighted the limits of Napoleon's power. His defeat at the Battle of Leipzig and the subsequent invasion of France by the Sixth Coalition forced his abdication. Napoleon's marriage to Marie Louise and the birth of their son, the King of Rome, marked the height of his imperial power. However, his inability to maintain control over his vast empire and the growing discontent among his subjects and allies led to his ultimate downfall.