How did foreign policy change under Napoleon?

Under Napoleon, foreign policy became more aggressive, expansionist and focused on establishing French dominance in Europe.

Napoleon Bonaparte, who came to power in France in 1799, significantly altered the country's foreign policy. Prior to his rule, France's foreign policy was largely defensive, aimed at maintaining the status quo and preventing foreign invasions. However, Napoleon adopted a more aggressive and expansionist approach, seeking to extend French influence and control across Europe.

One of the key aspects of Napoleon's foreign policy was his desire to establish French dominance in Europe. This was achieved through a series of wars, known as the Napoleonic Wars, which saw France conquer or form alliances with numerous European countries. These wars were not just about territorial expansion, but also about spreading the ideals of the French Revolution, such as liberty, equality and fraternity.

Napoleon's foreign policy also involved the use of diplomacy to achieve his goals. He often used alliances and treaties to further French interests. For example, the Treaty of Tilsit in 1807 saw Napoleon form an alliance with Russia, which helped to isolate Britain and strengthen France's position in Europe. However, these alliances were often unstable and short-lived, as Napoleon's ambitions and aggressive tactics frequently led to conflicts.

Another significant change in foreign policy under Napoleon was the introduction of the Continental System. This was an economic policy aimed at damaging Britain's economy by preventing European countries from trading with it. While the system was initially successful, it ultimately led to widespread economic hardship in Europe and contributed to Napoleon's downfall.

IB History Tutor Summary: Under Napoleon, France's foreign policy shifted to an aggressive and expansionist strategy, aiming to dominate Europe. This shift, marked by the Napoleonic Wars, sought to spread revolutionary ideals and was characterised by strategic alliances, like the Treaty of Tilsit, and economic measures against Britain, notably the Continental System. However, these policies eventually contributed to economic hardship and Napoleon's defeat.