THE STORY SO FAR

A crash course in Napoleonic history before 1812

Napoleon ascendent 1796

It’s a big year for 27-year-old Napoleon Bonaparte as he is made commander in chief of the army of Italy, marries Joséphine de Beauharnais in a civil ceremony and achieves victories at Lodi, Arcole and early into 1797 in Rivoli as well, leading to the retreat of Austria and further establishing Bonaparte’s leadership.

First consul 1799

Having been fighting in Egypt, Napoleon returns to Paris with the ruling Directory unpopular with the masses. He receives a hero’s welcome thanks to his exploits, despite some failures, and leads a successful coup d’état. Napoleon is made first consul for ten years, leading this newly formed government.

Leader for life 1802

With the signing of the Treaty of Amiens with Britain, the promise of peace in Europe seems at hand. Napoleon’s popularity at home couldn’t be higher, the economy is turning around for the better and as a result the Consulate is made permanent, making Napoleon First Consul for life.

From turmoil to emperor 1804

1804 begins with

Haiti declaring its independence and a new assassination plot involving the former ruling Bourbon family. The resultant execution of the Duke of Enghien sets Europe on course for the Napoleonic

Wars and for Napoleon himself to be elected emperor of France.

Defeat and victory 1805

Following coronation for himself and Josephine in France, Napoleon is also crowned king of Italy in Milan, but a new coalition against France has been forming. Napoleon is defeated at Trafalgar by the British Royal Navy, but just a couple of months later achieves a significant victory at Austerlitz against Austria.

Desperate for an heir 1810

Apparently driven by concern over not conceiving an heir, Napoleon divorces Josephine and, cementing his new alliance with Austria, marries Archduchess Marie Louise, eldest child of the Habsburg emperor. The following March Napoléon François Charles Joseph Bonaparte is born.