changes in economic field done by Napoleon
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Explanation:
Rarely history bring forth personalities of such a magnitude that their appearance on world stage not only alters the tide of their own times but also leaves an indelible mark on global order. Napoleon Bonaparte is one such character whose sheer brilliance, valor, charisma and strength seduced his contemporaries and left coming generations in awe. Though his checkered career is marked by a complex mix of highs and lows, these vicissitudes couldn’t eclipse the achievements Napoleon made is short time duration. He was a product of the age of enlightenment along with French revolution of 1789, factors that influences his actions. Along with successful military campaigns, he made genuine efforts to reform French society in several spheres of social life.
First, Napoleon consolidated France under a centralized government rule. Although Bourbon monarchs tried to do the same in earlier times, their maneuvers were severely decimated by strong nobles and aristocrats. Centralized government rule played a significant role in facilitating reforms in the field of education, taxation, religion etc.
In the field of education, Napoleon pursued a system of public education throughout France, as envisioned during the revolution. He setup University of France and separated the influence of Church from education. These reforms, however, were limited to boys only. Napoleon held backward views about education for girls and considered it not important for them.
Napoleon realized the weaknesses of French financial infrastructure and made necessary changes to reform French economy. He introduced a system of tariffs and loans to strengthen local industry. He also laid the foundation of Bank of France to regulate currency and protect it against inflation. Roads, bridges and canals were built and repaired to facilitate trade and communications. Napoleon also provided food subsidies to keep the basic necessities of food at low prices. More employment opportunities were stimulated to cater for unemployed. Thus, Napoleon adopted multilateral approach to enhance economic development.
One of the most distinguished features of Napoleon’s reign was set of laws called The Code Napoleon. These laws embedded in the ideals of revolution such as equality before law, freedom of religion, protection of property rights, the abolition of serfdom and secular state etc. transformed the whole fabric of French society. Although some of the provisions of Code Napoleon stood against liberal views of enlightened era, others permitted rights and granted privileges were unprecedented in French society. By virtue of these laws Napoleon not only liberated his own countrymen, but also advanced same philosophy to the occupied territories.
While most of his reforms align perfectly with the ideals of Enlightenment and French revolution, there are some shortcomings as well. Napoleon refused to grant political rights to his people and freedom of speech was suppressed. Role of women was limited to household because of lack of education and unfair gender laws. However all these and other inadequacies cannot undermine the momentous achievements of Napoleon.