Final answer:
Napoleon was compelled to sell his North American territories due to financial strains from the Haitian conflict, the looming threat of war with Britain, and the disastrous effects of the Russian campaign, which included the loss of men and prestige.
Step-by-step explanation:
Napoleon Bonaparte was forced to rethink his North American ambitions for several critical reasons. The failure of the war against the Haitian Revolution led to substantial financial burdens and the loss of a significant military force due to yellow fever. Meanwhile, the anticipation of war with Britain necessitated the consolidation of military focus and resources in Europe. These setbacks, coupled with the disastrous Russian campaign in 1812, demonstrated the limits of French power and Napoleon's vulnerability.
This context made the sale of the Louisiana Territory to the United States for 50 million francs (approximately $15 million) a pragmatic decision. The Louisiana Purchase included the strategic port city of New Orleans and ultimately doubled the size of the U.S., which was a surprising expansion for President Thomas Jefferson, who originally sought only New Orleans to secure American commerce along the Mississippi River.
Domestically, Napoleon built an empire stretching across Europe, boasting a vast army and installing puppet governments led by his relatives. Despite military dominance in continental Europe until 1813, France was unable to achieve naval superiority against the strong British fleet. The humbling retreat from Moscow after the invasion of Russia eroded the perceived military genius of Napoleon and the invincibility of the French army, leading to a reassessment of his strategic priorities.