Question

what were the reforms introduced by napoleon bonaparete in france

Answer 1

Napoleon Bonaparte dispossessed dynasty and created kingdoms where he placed his own family members. He introduced many laws such as the protection of private property and a uniform system of weights and measures provided by the decimal system. He set out to conquer neighbouring European countries. Napoleon saw his role as a moderniser of Europe.

Answer 2

Reforms Introduced by Napoleon Bonaparte in France are as follows :-

1) Napoleon considerably increased central control over local government. The elected official like Prefect, sub-prefects and Mayor, who were in charge of various units were directly placed under the Central Government. This resulted in resolution of order even though it undermined the self-government in the country.

2) He appointed a Legion of Honour consisting of 6000 members. These members were appointed on the basis of their of merit and generally only those persons who had served the nation or society were made its members. He also took a decision to return the property of the Nobles and Clergy which had been taken from them during the period of revolution.

3) Napoleon centralized the government, putting control firmly in the hands of the national government. It became more efficient. Advancement in civil services and the military was based on merit rather than rank. The tax system was applied equally to all.

4) In 1804, Napoleon took on the legal system of France. The system of laws was in a state of chaos. Laws were not codified and were based on Roman law, ancient customs or monarchial paternalism. During the time of revolution, many laws were changed. It was difficult to determine what law applied in any given situation, and laws were not equally applied to everyone. The laws were codified and written clearly so that the people could understand them and determine what law applied in which situation.

5) Napoleon built many schools for boys of age 10 to 16. He recognized the importance of education in producing citizens capable of filling positions in his bureaucracy and military. His education policy was based on three principles. These three principles were loyalty to the crown, faith in the Christianity and dutiful attitude towards the rules of the department of education. He also set up institutions for higher education and technical education. He set up a university in 1808 for the maintenance of universal standards of education in the country.  

6) Napoleon tried to improve the economic condition of France. He established the Bank of France, which greatly facilitated trade and commerce. He also tried to check the evils like black marketing, speculation, profiteering and punished economic offenders very severely.