Winning the Public over: the Secret to Napoleon’s Genius Success

Depicted heroically on horseback pointing towards the high alps with the superior marching army, even the Duke of Wellington I admits: “In this age, in past ages, in any age, Napoleon.” Napoleon dominated Continental Europe, developing a system of laws, administration, and education that still influences the world today. Influential, recognisable, and brilliant, he has won over 90% of his battles: accomplished for a coach, but extraordinary for a general. Therefore, what is the erudite secret of his success?

Even if you have never been to a gallery, you could still picture the gloating portrait of Napoleon; it’s more than just shocking to discover that Napoleon was harassed at school and was born into a poor background. Similar to many others, his background had an effect on his career: he eagerly signed up for the role of a general. Napoleon was exceptionally unique compared to most officers even then. That was unable to block Napoleon’s strong ambition from commanding an army. He later went on to conquer many countries - including the Low Countries - and even the fierce German Empire. Still, there is a crucial factor required yet again to achieve such victories: leadership.

Napoleon’s map is filled with crosses on trophy territories, but completion without his army would be infinitely small. This meant that the full objective was able to be communicated well between the army and thus an even stronger chance of defeating and accomplishing his almost impossible tasks. His concern for troops has been evident in battles. Napoleon was able to command the respect of his soldiers by showing that he revered them and their abilities and contributions: he slept with even the most lowly foot soldiers, ate with them, and came to call soldiers by their names - ‘my friend’ and patting them gently on the shoulder. Producing an unstoppable army of 1,013,000 men by distilling loyalty and devotion in all soldiers was a piece of cake. According to the Bristorian, when Napoleon escaped Elba, troops who were sent to capture Napoleon threw their firearms aside. Keeping morale was also important as Napoleon feared a mutiny. Understanding Napoleon’s leadership skills may embellish your life, lifting you through the ceiling of success. Moreover, Napoleon’s battle tactics proved to be effective in breaking enemy lines.

A mass stampede of troops approaches, showing off their numbers on the hills. They march down, their gleaming leather boots beating the sound of drums, ever more increasing the tension in the enemy. Artillery shells bombard all around the dirt, and the defenders realise there is no hope. Napoleon is a tactic calculator, an accredited mathematician, and geologist. He is especially known for studying the landscape of the alps which led to a Napoleonic victory. Napoleonic feinting is one of his favourites: a Napoleonic army splits into 2, the first “attacking” from the front and the second firing from the rear, forcing enemies to fight at a disadvantage. His armies were small, owing to the 3 components that Napoleon deemed essential to his victories. Sneak attacks were one: nervous troops often had eyes darting from here to there so as to identify surprise attacks. His army was then mobile which allowed him to defeat an enemy after the other: this resulted in quick and decisive victories. His meticulous planning and unconventional warfare thus made Napoleon one of the most renowned generals.

Sitting on horseback and pointing towards the endless horizon, Napoleon Bonaparte stands on top of the world. He has officially secured the title as: “Hero of France” and is esteemed by many. He is a character who has made an inevitable change to history and warfare, even if his story was controversial. He departed the world, but his legacy lives on forever. “Ability is nothing without opportunity.”