History The Napoleonic Wars Questions
Napoleon rose to power through a combination of military success, political maneuvering, and popular support. He initially gained recognition as a military leader during the French Revolution, where he successfully defended the French government against counter-revolutionary forces. His victories in Italy and Egypt further enhanced his reputation. In 1799, he staged a coup d'état and overthrew the French government, establishing himself as the First Consul. Through a series of political and constitutional reforms, he consolidated his power and eventually declared himself Emperor of the French in 1804.