ABSTRACT
The loss of France's West Indian colonies, British naval supremacy, and Napoleon's military dominance of Europe led to a shift in French trade from the Atlantic coast to Europe. France was envisaged as the focus for European trade, and the most favoured partner in the Empire. Evasion of the law, and desertion were widespread in both France and where conscription was established in the Empire; few imperial requirements were as unpopular and evoked such hostility. The Netherlands was incorporated into the French Empire and conscription on the French model was introduced; 14,000 Dutch troops were part of the army which invaded Russia in 1812. This chapter discusses the imperial navy was also recruited by conscription. On the rupture of the Peace of Amiens Napoleon had only 13 ships of the line ready for sea; two years later, with the addition of ten Dutch ships, he had about 50.
