Napoleon Bonaparte, later known by his regnal name Napoleon I, was a French general and statesman who rose to prominence during the French Revolution and led a series of military campaigns across Europe during the French Revolutionary and Napoleonic Wars from 1796 to 1815. Born on August 15, 1769, in Ajaccio, Corsica, Napoleon's life was marked by significant military victories, political power, and eventual exile and death. Here is a timeline of his life and key events.
Main Milestones
Birth of Napoleon Bonaparte
15 August 1769
Napoleon Bonaparte was born in Ajaccio, Corsica, to a family of Italian origin. This marked the beginning of a life that would significantly impact European history.
Education in Brienne
1779
At the age of 10, Napoleon began his education in Brienne, northern France, where he learned French and excelled in mathematics, laying the foundation for his future military career.
Admission to École Militaire
1784
Napoleon was admitted into the École Militaire, where he trained to become an artillery officer, furthering his military education and career.
Siege of Toulon
1793
Napoleon won the siege of Toulon, a decisive victory that marked his rapid rise through the ranks and established him as a national hero.
Military Campaigns Against the Austrians
1796
Napoleon commanded a military campaign against the Austrians and their Italian allies in the War of the First Coalition, scoring decisive victories and becoming a national hero.
Coup of 18 Brumaire
1799
Napoleon engineered the Coup of 18 Brumaire against the Directory, becoming First Consul of the Republic and marking the beginning of his political dominance.
Coronation as Emperor
1804
Napoleon crowned himself Emperor of the French, further expanding his power and establishing the French Empire.
Invasion of Russia
1812
Napoleon launched a massive invasion of Russia, which ended in disaster for France and the near-destruction of Napoleon's Grande Armée.
Exile to Elba
1814
Napoleon was forced to abdicate and was exiled to the island of Elba, marking the end of his first reign.
Hundred Days and Battle of Waterloo
1815
Napoleon escaped from Elba and reassumed control of France for around one hundred days. However, he was decisively defeated at the Battle of Waterloo and exiled again, this time to the island of Saint Helena.
Death of Napoleon
5 May 1821
Napoleon died on the island of Saint Helena, six years after his final exile, marking the end of his life and legacy.
