Identifier

etd-04132015-124829

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Department

History

Document Type

Dissertation

Abstract

An in-depth analysis of primary source material indicates that the conspiracies hatched against Napoleon served as the impetus for his decision to change the government from the Consulate to the Empire. His ambitious personality drove him to achieve as much power and prestige for himself as possible, a point discussed by numerous historians, but the conspiratorial actions designed to strike him down provided the opportunity. He was a master of manipulating situations—and people—in order to achieve his ambitious goals. Knowing that his constituents worried over renewed political turmoil if something happened to him, Napoleon used their fears to strengthen his personal grasp on power. By accepting the position of First Consul for life, he made a promise to French citizens that he would protect and serve them for the duration of his life. By then taking the title of Emperor, he promised that his family would protect and serve the nation in perpetuity.

Date

2015

Document Availability at the Time of Submission

Secure the entire work for patent and/or proprietary purposes for a period of one year. Student has submitted appropriate documentation which states: During this period the copyright owner also agrees not to exercise her/his ownership rights, including public use in works, without prior authorization from LSU. At the end of the one year period, either we or LSU may request an automatic extension for one additional year. At the end of the one year secure period (or its extension, if such is requested), the work will be released for access worldwide.

Committee Chair

Martin, Benjamin F

DOI

10.31390/gradschool_dissertations.1198

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History Commons

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