Almost two and a half centuries ago, Napoleon Bonaparte was born in Corsica on August 15, 1769, Napoleon Bonaparte was born in Corsica. Although from an unremarkable family in an unremarkable part of France, within three decades he would become the emperor of the largest Empire in Europe and challenge the balance of power on the continent, leading France to become the premier power in Europe.
Napoleonic Empire Declaration Letter
Napoleon’s rise came around the French Revolution when the nation was turned upside down, as the monarchy was overthrown and the Republic was established. This brought about societal changes that allowed commoners and lesser nobles to rise in French society such as Napoleon. His masterful leadership and military genius allowed him to rise through the ranks, winning victory after victory across Italy and Egypt.
While they might have been successful on the battlefield, the Republic never managed to stabilize itself. At the time, the Republic was ruled by a five-member committee called the Directory. This government was rocked by corruption, instability, and economic hardship.
This provided a power vacuum for Napleon to exploit when he returned to France from Egypt. He joined forces with several politicians and staged a couple on November 9, 1799. He disbanded the Directory and created a new government that appointed him First Consul, effectively the sole ruler of France.
This entire French Revolution was inspired by another revolution across the ocean, the American Revoltuionary War which has its own share of legendary letters.
Of course, Napoleon could not just come and take power. He needed to justify and present himself as the savior. That is why he supposedly penned this letter to the Directory and the French people that explained his actions, painting himself as the savior of the revolution. This allowed him to consolidate power in France before officially declaring himself emperor.
Citizens Directors,
The Republic is perishing by the same means which once gave it strength. The divisions in the government, the military insubordination, and the mistrust among the authorities have weakened the Republic. It is time to save it from internal decay. France needs unity, strength, and a firm hand to guide it through these times of trouble. My duty to the nation compels me to act.
In the interest of the Republic and the revolution, I shall take all necessary measures to restore order and security. Let us together ensure that the legacy of the Revolution is preserved and that the enemies of the people are defeated once and for all.
-Napoleon Bonaparte, Former Emperor of France.
If you want to create vintage letters with your own or other people’s famous lines, our Vintage Letter service allows you to make and send them here.
