|
|
It was Thomas Carlyle who believed that one person could change the course of events in history. He strongly believed that it was because of the individuals?greatness that led the people into their outcomes, not historical circumstances, which Carl Marx would argue. Napoleon Bonaparte is a perfect example of individual greatness. Carlyle said, “It is not a lucky word, this name impossible; no good comes of those who have it so often in their mouths.? The word impossible was not a familiar word to Napoleon. He was successful in what he tried to achieve because he let nothing stand in his way. Could someone, like Napoleon, truly stand as an individual and change the course of history? Yes, and it happened. Napoleon was just one of many leaders who led his people, and changed history forever. Napoleon Bonaparte was born on August 15, 1769 and died May 5, 1821. During that time he rose to be one of the greatest leaders that France ever had. Napoleon created political alliances and seized control of the French Government. He made changes in all areas, including government, religion and education. He made a new constitution as well as setting up a Continental System. Napoleon led France to many victories, which was his key to gaining the trust of the people. Napoleon won the war for France with the Austrians that led to the signing of the Treaty of Campoformio, which enlarged France’s Territory. After ten years of war, the people wanted one strong leader and Napoleon had proven himself worthy of that title. For the first time in ten years, because of Napoleon, Europe was at peace. Napoleon however, still wasn’t satisfied.
|
