The World's Most Iconic Little Leader

Napoleon was arguably Europe’s most iconic leader. Although he was and continues to be quite a controversial figure in history, there’s no denying he was great at what he did. While he was in power, he not only redrew the map of Europe through all of his conquering and overtaking of other countries, but established many other social, economic, and political reforms while he was at it, completely changing the way much of Europe was operated. His influence still lives on today, and will most likely until the end of time; Napoleon was and continues to be one of history’s finest leaders.

Through his social impact, Napoleon’s concern for education and merit was made clear. All across Europe he abolished all titles of nobility, serfdom, and church privilege; thus ending the long standing ideas that one could be considered lesser or greater based on the status they were born into. His reform didn't end social class based on birthright completely, but it was a step in the right direction for hard-work to be valued. He also established a meritocracy, a system in which people were rewarded for their skills instead of their social class, again establishing the idea that merit was important. He granted everyone more rights to property and made education more accessible for citizens as well.

Source: http://www.biography.com/people/napoleon-9420291

Bonaparte also had a huge economic impact on Europe. He was able to restore economic prosperity to France after the Revolution through controlling prices, encouraging and stimulating new industry, removing trade barriers, and building new roads and canals. He was able to establish the Bank of France, balance the budget, and undertake massive public work programs; all of which only contributed to his supporters’ admiration for him. All of his changes had great and positive impact on not only France and much of Europe’s economy, but the way he was viewed as well. His ingenious ideas won over many of the average citizens, and so did the avid concern he seemed to have for the middle man. He was considering others beside himself and the government, which was something that hadn't really been done in past European governments.

The political impact Napoleon made was equally as important as his social and economic impacts. He had great influence and power, and was able to conquer almost all of Europe besides Britain through his war leadership and tactics. He was a bit intimidating too, seeing as when the Directory became aware of his intentions to overthrow them in 1709, all five members resigned. Napoleon also reorganized the government of Egypt and established the Institute of Egypt while he was at it, an establishment that eventually began the study of Ancient Egypt, which is still a huge part of the world’s studies today.

Although there are many who claim that Napoleon was an unlikable character or not as influential as he is claimed to be, there really is no argument that he changed the way a lot of the world worked. Through his economic, social, and political reforms he was able to not only change much of Europe for the better but also impact other countries as well; even to this day many of his ideas still resonate in many societies. Napoleon Bonaparte was not only Europe’s most influential leader, but one of the most influential leaders to have ever walked the Earth.