Final answer:
Napoleon Bonaparte was a key figure in the French Revolution who later became the authoritarian Emperor of France, extending its borders and creating puppet states governed by his family.
Step-by-step explanation:
The historical figure of Napoleon Bonaparte is complex, marked by both his contributions to the French Revolution and his authoritarian rule as Emperor of France. Initially seen as a reformer, Napoleon worked to protect France's borders while creating favorable peace settlements. However, his unending pursuit of conquests signifies his inherent need for dominance, leading him to extend France's borders far beyond their initial reach. Despite promoting reform and reason, his governance lacked democratic principles, depending heavily on his troops' loyalty, which was maintained through victories and propaganda. He rose to absolute power through a coup d'etat, comparing himself to historic empire founders.
Napoleon's method of governance was centralized and participatory, appointing his family members to govern the puppet states he created across Europe. He managed his empire meticulously and relied heavily on a few trusted generals and his older brother. This approach reflected not only his dismissal of democratic impulses but also his belief in reason and efficiency over traditional customs.
Loyalty from his troops was unwavering, as Napoleon ensured their payment in silver and led them to numerous victories, while simultaneously promoting pro-Napoleonic propaganda. His ascension to power in 1799 through a coup d'etat, and subsequent self-coronation in 1804, reflects his self-perception as a founder of empires, comparing himself to historic figures like Alexander the Great and Julius Caesar.