Napoleon is famous for his institution of the Napoleonic Code, which granted freedom of religion, eliminated privileges based upon birth, and demanded that government jobs be given to those most qualified to hold them.
He implemented broad reforms that strengthened France's economy, as well as its legal and education systems. He was also an astute politician who helped to create a new constitution for France and eventually rose to the highest-ranking government official in the country. Through subsequent promotions, Napoleon proved himself to be a cunning military leader and strategist. Aligning himself with the leaders of the day, Napoleon soon found himself named commander of the Army of the Interior. In the wake of the French Revolution, opportunities abounded for ambitious military leaders like Napoleon. Around the time of his birth, Corsica had been occupied by the French, and Napoleon would grow up attending military schools in France. Napoleon Bonaparte was born on August 15, 1769, on the island of Corsica off the southeast coast of France.
Who are we talking about? Napoleon, of course! When it comes to famous world leaders who made their mark on the world, there's one French leader who stands head and shoulders above the rest.
