Main > Biography > Fragile Empire
Soon, the fragile peace between France and her neighbors crumbled.
The Napoleonic Code or Civil Code was formed in 1804. It secured the gains of the peasants and middle class during the French Revolution. The Code, however, took away all the gains made by the women during the Revolution. Freedom of speech and press was cut down and a secret police was formed.
Napoleon was voted as emperor by the Senate and the people in May 1804.
On December 2, 1804, the coronation took place at the Cathedral Notre Dame in Paris.
Napoleon’s invasion fleet was destroyed at the Battle of Trafalgar on October 21, 1805, protecting Great Britain from anymore attacks. In 1805, however, Britain managed to organize a coalition of Austria, Russia, Sweden, and Naples, the Third Coalition, against France. After several defeats, Russia pulled back down and Austria surrendered, causing the Third Coalition to collapse.
Napoleon
placed his family and relatives on the thrones of Europe. Now that the
Coalition was gone, Napoleon turned his attention back to Britain. Instead
of taking Britain directly, Napoleon decided to starve it out. In 1807,
Napoleon issued the Continental System, ordering French ships to attack
any British vessel in sight.
The reshaping of Europe by Napoleon alarmed the Prussians. When Prussia joined Russia in mounting a new offensive, Napoleon defeated the Russians and Prussians in several battles. In treaties of Tilsit, Prussia lost half its land and Russia had to enforce the Continental System.
Portugal and Spain revolted against France. Despite huge loses, the rebels didn't give up. So, the peninsula became the "ulcer of the French Empire."
By 1809, Napoleon was concerned about Josephine’s inability to produce a child. After an attempt on his life, Napoleon felt that he needed someone to take his place when he’s gone. In December of 1809, Napoleon divorced Josephine, and he later married Marie Louise. Later, the couple had a son and named him Napoleon.
In 1810, Napoleon’s empire reached its height. Then in late 1810, disaster struck.