Biography of Napoleon Bonaparte

A relentless and power hungry military commander, Napoleon Bonaparte led the French to innumerable victories in his period. He was well known for his prolific leadership qualities and masterly military tactics.

Childhood
The second among the seven children of Carlo and Maria Letizia Ramolino, Napoleon Bonaparte spent his childhood in "Ajaccio", Corsica. Napoleon Bonaparte was born on 15 August, 1769; his parents were of Italian descent. Napoleon's mother, who was known for her dominant nature, was influential in curbing his mischievous ways. Napoleon received the sacrament of baptism on 21 July, 1771, prior to his second birthday. He was sent to a school in Autun, in France, which was known for its religious upbringing. He spent his time there trying to master French. Later, in the month of May, the same year, he attended military school at "Brienne". Because of his Corsican origin, Napoleon had a distinctive accent, for which he was teased by his fellow classmates.

Early Years
After completing his studies at Brienne, he went to an elite military academy where he got trained for artillery. He had to complete a two-year course in one year because of the reduced income, due to his fathers demise. After completing his graduation in September 1785, he was appointed second lieutenant, in "La Fére" regiment, which specialized in artillery. In the year 1789, after the French revolution, he secured the position of Lieutenant Colonel, and rose to the rank of a Captain, in the year 1792.

Conquests
His prowess as a Captain came into prominence during the siege of "Toulon", where he used tactics and military expertise to bombard territories occupied by the British troops, which forced them to evacuate. The assault by Napoleon on the naval troops, forced the fleet of British ships to retreat. His actions earned him the position of 'Brigadier General.' Later the "Committee of Public Safety", who took note of his achievements, was instrumental in bestowing upon him the command of the entire French artillery wing, "Army of Italy".

His association with, "Augustin Robespierre", resulted in him being arrested and imprisoned at "Fort Carré", though he was released immediately. On his campaign in Italy, the "Battle Of Lodi" was a fierce duel with the forces of Austria. Napoleon managed to drive them out of "Lombardy". His campaign in Italy, seized a formidable amount of artillery in the form of cannons. His army also captured prisoners in huge proportions. Napoleon's army that was well equipped with artillery and manpower won 18 battles. During the Italian campaign, he developed a keen interest in French politics. He started circulating two newspapers among the troops of his army, which he published. These newspapers also found themselves being widely circulated all over France.

In the year 1798, Napoleon, in the quest of power, set his sights on Egypt. In the battle fought against the "Mamluks", Napoleon's army faced a shortage in manpower. The "Mamluks", who were well equipped with a strong cavalry, fought valiantly. Napoleon tactically divided his troops in groups, to face the brunt of the attack. On 1 August, a fleet of British ships attacked and destroyed a number of French ships in the "Battle of the Nile". Although he was dejected, he led his army to Damascus to gain control of other territories. The constant lack of supplies along with bubonic plague forced him to return to Egypt.

The "Battle of Bordino", which was one of the bloodiest battles ever fought in those days, claimed thirty-five thousand French and forty-four thousand Russian lives. The "Battle of Waterloo" in 1815, was another historic battle fought by the French under Napoleons leadership.

Death
The month of February, in the year 1821, saw Napoleon falling drastically ill. The British physicians that attended to him couldn't do much to save him. He died after confessing his sins to Father "Ange Vignali". "Francesco Antommarchi", the physician, who performed the autopsy, claimed the cause of death to be stomach cancer, although he didn't officially sign the report that stated the cause.

A valiant administrator and a skillful tactician, Napoleon Bonaparte remains a true legend in the hearts of people.