Human Heritage: A World History

Chapter 35: Unrest in Europe

Web Activity Lesson Plans

“Napoleon”

Introduction
Students have read about Napoleon's quest for a worldwide empire. In this exercise, students will learn more about Napoleon's life and legacy. They will follow him from his birth on August 15, 1769, in Corsica, to his downfall and exile to the island of Elba.

Lesson Description
Students will use information from the PBS Web site feature "Napoleon" to learn about the Napoleonic era. Students will read essays about Napoleon's life and policies. Students will then answer four questions and apply this information by writing a journal entry about life as a soldier under Napoleon's command.

Instruction Objectives

1. Students will be able to identify the major events of Napoleon's life.
2. Students will be able to describe Napoleon's political legacy.
3. Students will be able to apply information from the Web site to write a letter detailing life in Napoleon's army.

Student Web Activity Answers

1. Napoleon never forgave his father for betraying his Corsican heritage.
2. Napoleon was confined to St. Helena, an island only ten miles long and six miles wide, for the remainder of his life.
3. By November 1799, Napoleon had established a new government, rewritten the Constitution, and made himself head of state under the title First Consul. He was the most powerful man in France.
4. Considered to be his greatest legacy, Napoleon's Civil Code codified the ideals embodied in the French Revolution. It assured the spread of these ideals long after the end of his rule.
5. Students' letters will vary.