1. What event started the French Revolution?
A: The fall of the Bastille started the French Revolution.
2. How did Napoleon assume power in France and become emperor?
A: As a popular general, Napoleon assumed power in France by taking part in the coup d'état of 1799 that overthrew the Directory and set up a new government. In theory, it was a republic, but in fact Napoleon held absolute power. In 1802, Napoleon was made consul for life. Two years later, he crowned himself Emperor Napoleon I.
3. Why was the French invasion of Russia a failure?
A: The French invasion of Russia was a failure because thousands of soldiers starved and froze during the "Great Retreat" west of across Russia. As a result of the French army being crippled, Paris was captured after an attack by other European states.
4. How does Jacques-Louis David portray Napoleon in the painting Napoleon Crossing the Alps? Why do you think Napoleon wanted artists to produce portraits like this one?
A: David portrays Napoleon as being calm and mounted on a fiery steed. I think Napoleon wanted artists to produce portraits like this one because the painting was a representation of his character rather than his physical appearance.
Good answers!
To get the answer to question 1, you can study the history of the French Revolution. The fall of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, is considered the starting point of the French Revolution. The Bastille was a medieval fortress and prison in Paris, and its storming by a crowd of revolutionary citizens marked a turning point in the revolution.
For question 2, you can study the history of Napoleon Bonaparte. After the French Revolution, Napoleon rose to power as a popular general and military leader. He played a key role in the coup d'état of 1799 that overthrew the existing government, known as the Directory. He then established a new government, initially as First Consul but later declared himself Emperor Napoleon I. His popularity, military successes, and political maneuvers helped him consolidate power in France.
To answer question 3, you can research the events of the French invasion of Russia. In 1812, Napoleon launched a massive military campaign to conquer Russia. However, the harsh Russian winter, guerrilla warfare tactics employed by the Russian army, and the scorched earth policy, where the Russians burned and destroyed their own resources to deprive the French army of supplies, led to the failure of the invasion. The French army suffered heavy casualties, starvation, and exposure to the elements during the "Great Retreat" from Russia.
For question 4, you can analyze the painting "Napoleon Crossing the Alps" by Jacques-Louis David. The painting portrays Napoleon as a heroic and powerful figure, calm and confident while riding on a spirited horse. Napoleon was known for his ambition and desire for fame, and he recognized the importance of image-building and propaganda. By commissioning artists like David to produce grandiose portraits, he aimed to elevate his own status, invoke a sense of awe and admiration, and shape public perception of him as a strong and charismatic leader.