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Historical
Investigations 1799-1955.
OCR Option 2589.
Napoleon I.
This option is concerned with interpreting the aims and achievements
of Napoleon and understanding the controversies which have characterised
studies of his reign. Within this candidates should consider how far
his rule represented change or continuity from the French Revolution.
Key Issues for Study and Examination.
1. Should Napoleon be viewed as the ‘heir
to the revolution’,
an ‘enlightened despot’ or a mere dictator?
2. Should Napoleon be regarded as a military genius?
3. Why was Napoleon so successful for so long in Europe, and why was
he eventually overthrown?
4. What was the impact of Napoleon on Europe?
Note: The different ways in which these themes and
issues have been interpreted by historians form a major focus of the
examination, so they need to be addressed.
Content.
* Napoleon’s background,
* his rise,
* his seizure and consolidation of power within France.
* Napoleon's domestic policies as First Consul and Emperor.
* Napoleon as a general,
* Napoleon’s aims and achievements in Europe,
* Napoleon’s relationships with other states,
* Napoleon’s military successes and conquests.
* Napoleon’s treatment of conquered territory, satellites
... and allies,
* the creation of the Napoleonic Empire,
* the Continental System,
* the Hundred Days,
* the Napoleonic legend.
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