Napoleon's rule posed a significant challenge to Enlightenment ideals because of concentration of power.
How did Napoleon oppose the Enlightenment ?
Enlightenment thinkers advocated for a limited government with a separation of powers to prevent the abuse of authority. Napoleon, on the other hand, established a centralized and authoritarian regime, consolidating power in his own hands.
He appointed loyalists to key positions, suppressed dissent, and restricted individual liberties. His conquests disrupted the balance of power and led to widespread suffering and destruction.
Enlightenment thinkers promoted republican ideals, advocating for a government based on popular sovereignty and citizen participation. Napoleon, in contrast, established an imperial system, crowning himself Emperor of France and imposing his rule over conquered territories. This undermined the notion of popular consent and the rights of citizens.