Introduction
Napoleon Bonaparte was a French military and political leader who rose to prominence during the French Revolution. He became Emperor of the French in 1804 and is widely regarded as one of the greatest military commanders in history. As such, Napoleon has been the subject of much debate and speculation over the years, and his legacy has been the subject of both admiration and criticism. One of the most important questions that has been asked is how the British viewed Napoleon during his lifetime and after his death. In this article, we will explore the British opinion of Napoleon throughout his life and examine how it has evolved over time.
British Opinion During Napoleon's Lifetime
During Napoleon's lifetime, the British opinion of him was largely negative. This was largely due to the fact that Napoleon was seen as a threat to British interests in Europe, and the British government was determined to oppose his expansionist ambitions. The British viewed Napoleon as a tyrant who was attempting to conquer Europe, and they were determined to prevent this from happening. As a result, the British were actively involved in a number of wars against Napoleon, including the Napoleonic Wars, which lasted from 1803 to 1815.
British Opinion After Napoleon's Death
After Napoleon's death in 1821, the British opinion of him began to shift. While the British still viewed him as a threat to their interests, they began to view him in a more positive light. This was largely due to the fact that Napoleon had become a symbol of French nationalism, and the British began to respect the fact that he had unified France and brought it out of the chaos of the Revolution.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the British opinion of Napoleon has shifted over time. During his lifetime, the British viewed him as a threat to their interests and were determined to oppose his expansionist ambitions. However, after his death, the British began to view him in a more positive light, as a symbol of French nationalism and a unifier of the country. As such, the British opinion of Napoleon has evolved over time, and he is now seen as a complex figure with both positive and negative aspects to his legacy.
