This 'In a Nutshell guide explores the life and legacy of Napoleon Bonaparte, whose actions as the French military and political leader shaped European politics. His Napoleonic code influenced the judicial foundations of most of Western Europe. Under the First French Republic, he successfully revolted against the First and Second Coalitions, and in 1804 the French Senate appointed him Emperor. In the early 19th century, he led France to victory and helped the country become a dominant European power. Despite the misfortunes of his later career, Napoleon is considered by many to be one of the greatest military commanders in history.