The rule of Napoleon Bonaparte from the end of the French revolution changed a huge number of things. Originally, Napoleon established himself as first consul for a minimum period of ten years. This changed in 1802, a plebiscite made Napoleon consul for life. Yet, in 1804, Napoleon took this a step further and declared himself Emperor of France.
Despite this dictator style rise to power, Napoleon did a variety of things that greatly benefitted the French people. He founded the Bank of France to control the huge influx of foreign money being brought in by his overseas conquests. On the other hand, the continental system placed a trade embargo on all British goods, forcing European countries to buy from France or risk military action. While this significantly benefitted France, every other country suffered.
Possibly the most famous part of the Napoleonic Empire was the military power that was built during his rule. Major campaigns were conducted across the entirety of Europe, subjigating much of the continent. England, Russia and Austria remained. Napoleon soon attempted to destroy this alliance, controlling Austria but getting defeated in Russia. This was the beginning of the end for the mighty Napoleon as other countries rose up against him and his last defeat came at Waterloo in 1815. It was after this defeat by the British and Prussians that Napoleon was exiled to a small island in the South Atlantic for the rest of his life.
