4.14 Napoleon's Foreign Policies

Napoleon's Empire and the Continental System

Through brilliant military campaigns, Napoleon conquered much of Europe, creating satellite kingdoms ruled by relatives and imposing the Napoleonic Code. To weaken Britain economically, he launched the Continental System (1806), banning European trade with Britain. It largely failed—smuggling persisted, and Britain's navy dominated the seas via the Battle of Trafalgar (1805).

Overextension and Nationalist Backlash

Napoleon's aggressive expansion sparked nationalist resistance, especially in Spain (Peninsular War) and Germany, where occupied peoples resented French rule despite reforms. His invasion of Russia (1812) proved disastrous—harsh winter and scorched-earth tactics destroyed his Grand Army, marking a turning point that emboldened European powers to unite against him.

Downfall and the Congress of Vienna

Weakened by Russia and defeated at the Battle of Leipzig (1813), Napoleon abdicated in 1814, briefly returned during the Hundred Days, and was finally crushed at Waterloo (1815). The Congress of Vienna, led by figures like Metternich, redrew Europe's map to restore balance of power and prevent future French domination.

Key terms

Continental System

Napoleon's 1806 policy banning European trade with Britain to weaken it economically; ultimately failed due to smuggling and enforcement issues.

Peninsular War

Conflict in Spain (1808-1814) where nationalist resistance fought against French occupation, draining Napoleon's resources.

Invasion of Russia (1812)

Napoleon's disastrous campaign; harsh winter and Russian scorched-earth tactics destroyed his Grand Army, marking a major turning point.

Battle of Waterloo (1815)

Final defeat of Napoleon after his Hundred Days return, ending his rule permanently and leading to his exile.

Congress of Vienna

1814-1815 meeting led by Metternich to redraw Europe's map and restore balance of power after Napoleon's defeat.

Try an AP-style question

The Continental System aimed to…

1. strengthen Britain's struggling economy
2. unite Europe peacefully under France
3. weaken Britain by blocking its trade
4. open European markets to British goods