Napoleon
as First Consul, painting by Ingres 1799
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The
government in the last phase of the French Revolution was known
as The Directory. In 1799, 10 years after the beginning of the
revolution, it ended. Because many prominent men, particularly
Abbe Sieyes, felt that the Directory was failing, they invited
the successful young General Napoleon to take power. He became
part of a triumvirate, three consuls. The consulate had full
power, and elections were ended. Napoleon assumed the position
of First Consul and obtained near dictatorial powers.
The
Consulate made government in France more efficient and abolished
most of the remnants of class and privilege. He created a meritocracy,
advancing men in public service according to their ability, not
on their birth. The feudal system was dead.
Those
who supported him and cooperated with him were rewarded. Those
who he believed were a threat were ruthlessly eliminated.
Part
of Napoleon: Tyrant or Hero exhibit
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