Napoleon Bonaparte

Napoleon Bonaparte (1769–1821) was a French military commander and political leader who rose to prominence during the French Revolution and led several successful campaigns during the Revolutionary Wars. As Emperor of France (1804–1814/1815), Napoleon dominated European and global affairs. He introduced the Napoleonic Code (civil law foundation), reorganized education, established the Bank of France, and conquered much of Europe. His downfall came through the disastrous invasion of Russia (1812), defeat at Leipzig (1813), exile to Elba, brief return during the Hundred Days, and final defeat at Waterloo (1815). He died in exile on Saint Helena.