Unit 3: Revolutions and Reaction
Lesson C: Impact of the Atlantic Revolutions on Europe
Activity 3: The Rise and Fall of Napoleon
The question remains, did the French revolutionaries achieve the goals of their battle cry: "Liberty, Equality, Fraternity?" Did life for the average person in France change or stay the same?
We cannot effectively evaluate the French Revolution without looking more closely at the life of French leader Napoleon Bonaparte. Some people believe Napoleon should be viewed as a hero of the French people. Still others believe he was more of a villain. So how do we decide?
During the remainder of this lesson you will draw your own conclusion about Napoleon, a man who became Emperor of France. An emperor yields absolute power over his empire. Could such a man be a hero?
Presentation Activity - The Rise and Fall of Napoleon
Mini Lesson
Before you view the presentation:
Download the Student Resource: The Rise and Fall of Napoleon (doc) and complete questions 1-3.
View the presentation:
When you are ready, select the play button to learn about The Rise and Fall of Napoleon Bonaparte and complete questions 4 and 5 on your student resource.
Classroom Activity - The Rise and Fall of Napoleon
Discussion
Directions: Prepare a response to the discussion question(s) below. Follow your teacher's directions to participate in your class discussion.
- Did you predict that Napoleon was a hero or villain?
- What evidence supports the opinion that Napoleon was a hero?
- What evidence supports the opinion that Napoleon was a villain?
- Did your prediction change after you viewed the presentation? Explain.
Select the link to review the Discussion Scoring Tool (pdf).
