Question

Napolean was a great administrator. Explain in short points

Answer 1

Napoleon, introduced a number of reforms in the territories he conquered. He had introduced revolutionary principles in administration.

In 1804 the Civil Code, also called Napoleonic Code, was introduced with all privileges based on birth, established equality before the law and secured the right to property.

The aim of the code was to reform the society, in areas such as family, property, civil procedure etc. Soon the Code spread to all territories under French control.

Administration was simplified, feudal system was abolished and serfs were freed in the Dutch Republic, in Switzerland, in Italy and Germany.

Transport and communication systems improved. Artisans, peasants, workers and new businessmen enjoyed the new-found freedom.

Businessmen and small-scale producers learnt that uniform laws, standardised weights and measures and a common national currency would help in trading goods.