Was Napoleon Bonaparte a hero or a villain?During the Napoleonic era, from 1799 to 1815, France became a military power gaining and controlling land throughout Europe. Although some historians believe that Napoleon Bonaparte was a ruthless dictator, his military accomplishments far outweigh the atrocities he committed. He helped France regain stability after the French Revolution and he also abolished the feudal contract. Napoleon was a brilliant strategist using military tactics to sow fear and defeat any enemies who got in his way. Throughout his reign, Napoleon continually gained ground, and by the end of his reign his empire encompassed all of Spain, Italy, and a small portion of the lands of Russia and Austria. (see map) He is one of the most controversial leaders in history and therefore one of the most studied strategic minds. He revolutionized warfare with unique tactics and innovative inventions. Although he displayed villainous characteristics, he was the leader France needed to regain stability after the Revolution and was therefore a hero. Napoleon's need for power and desire to conquer the world led to his downfall, but the way he united the French in a difficult time made him a hero to all. Napoleon's background truly shaped who he was. In 1769 he was born in Corsica. His parents, Carlo Buonaparte and his wife Leticia Ramolino were minor nobles with an estate in Corsica.[4] His first school was the Collège d'Autun. He was on a scholarship and people often made fun of his Corsican character. He was often an outsider but from the start he demonstrated extraordinary leadership.[5]After the college of Autun, he attended the college of Brienne. [6] He then attended the Collège Militaire de Paris. During this t...... middle of article ......accessed May 13, 2014). "Napoleon Bonaparte: the greatest in the world." Napoleon Bonaparte: the greatest in the world. http://www.napoleon-series.org/research/napoleon/c_greatest.html (accessed May 14, 2014). PBS. “Napoleonic Code”. PBS. http://www.pbs.org/empires/napoleon/n_war/campaign/page_1.html (accessed April 24, 2014). “The Treaty of Amiens 1801”. The Treaty of Amiens 1801. http://www.napoleon-series.org/research/government/diplomatic/c_peace.html (accessed April 23, 2014). "4 Tactics Used by Napoleon Bonaparte That Can Help You Win Your Life Wars | One Powerful Word: Inspiration, Motivation, and Insight in Life." 4 Tactics Used by Napoleon Bonaparte That Can Help You Win Your Life Wars | One Powerful Word: Inspiration, Motivation and Insight for Life http://www.onepowerfulword.com/2010/10/remember-napolean-bonaparte-3-success.html (accessed April). 23, 2014).