10 Things You Should Know About Napoleon's Legacy

They called him the "Corsican Ogre" and the "Enemy of Mankind" - but was Napoleon Bonaparte a power-hungry tyrant who oppressed his people? Or a liberating hero who brought revolutionary ideals to Europe?

10. A Complex Legacy

Was Napoleon a hero who revolutionized France? Or a tyrant driven by ego and ambition? His dueling reputations remind us he was both a remarkable man and a flawed human being. You can't sum him up in one label!

9. The Self-Made Myth

Napoleon was a master at cultivating his own legend as a military genius and emperor of the people. He had himself portrayed as a hero through art and literature spread across his empire. This "self-made myth" cemented his popular appeal. A great PR move!

8. Enlightenment Ideals

As a young officer, Napoleon embraced revolutionary values like liberty, equality and republican patriotism. He positioned himself as a liberator spreading these enlightened ideals through his conquests. Rebelling against the old monarchy styles.

7. The Napoleonic Code

One of Nap's biggest legacies was the Napoleonic Code - a series of laws instantiating cool values like religious tolerance and property rights. It formed the blueprint for laws across Europe. Thanks Nap!

6. Imperial Ambition

While giving lip service to liberating people, Napoleon became an imperial dictator obsessed with conquering territory and creating a dynasty. His quest for power caused immense suffering through years of warfare. Oops, got a bit power hungry there.

5. Abolishing The Slave Trade

In 1815, Napoleon abolishing the slave trade was an enlightened move - striking a major blow against that inhumane practice. Though he had briefly reinstituted slavery in colonies in 1802. Mixed record on that one.

4. Cult of Personality

Napoleon demanded total obedience and cultivated a huge cult of personality, seeing himself as an enlightened despot born to rule. He persecuted opposition, censored press, and concentrated power. Ego much?

3. An Enlightened Despot?

Some argue Nap was an "enlightened despot" using reason and merit. Others see him as a flat-out tyrant using terror against his enemies. You could see it both ways if we're honest.

2. Military Genius

No debate here - Napoleon was a tactical genius and one of history's finest military strategists. His resourcefulness and ability to inspire armies led to countless underdog victories. Impressive stuff.

1. A Very Human Legacy

At the end of the day, Napoleon was complex - both idealistic revolutionary and pragmatic authoritarian. He had great virtues and great flaws that shaped his towering legacy. More than a simplistic label, he was simply human. Just like us!