ABSTRACT
Napoleon Bonaparte was a military leader and eventually emperor of France whose conquests determined much of the European geopolitical landscape during the late 18th and early 19th centuries. He may be the best example to demonstrate that major events are determined by the personal drive and leadership of men and women rather than by environmental forces such as economics and geography. Napoleon was a highly talented opportunist who took advantage of the French Revolution to propel himself into a position of great power. He used force and political maneuvering to expand his power throughout Europe. He also made signifi cant contributions to judicial law and public administration. He is credited with cultural advances, many of which resulted from art works that were looted by his armies and brought to France. His military campaigns demonstrated true genius at strategy and tactics and are studied in military academies throughout the world.
