22. The Control of the Grand Empire Flashcards
Revise
What was the general rule when differentiating between greater France and satellite states?
In greater France, departments were carved out and it was fully integrated. In satellite states, it mimicked the French system but wasn’t part of it.
How were the French states effectively run and what were its flaws?
Napoleon sometimes appointed those he wished to get out of Paris, but often selected effective and trained men. A gendarmerie was established across all the states, working effectively in directly controlled areas. However parts of Southern Italy and North Germany proved to be too unruly, as well as Spain. Therefore France used the regular army to enforce order.
Devolution was highly centralised and all major decisions were Napoleon’s
How did France benefit economically?
‘France First’ policies. Removed privillages, dismantled internal trade barriers and the rigourous tax system were all intended to maximise revenue.
Kingdom of Italy taxes made more efficient and increased revenue by 50%. Brought in uniform land taxes. Empire also provided booty eg land dotations from Poland accounted for 25% of all land dotations.
How did the states suffer under Empire economic rule?
Satellite states were regarded for their raw materials and couldn’t develop industry.
Inner Empire did well, Belgium cotton production increased and the Rhineland increased mining.
However non-French manufacturing suffered, silk in Italy and Genoa lost textile trade to Nice.
Italy’s agriculture had developed with wider imperial markets.
The Continental Blockade had a detrimental effect in Europe 1810-11.
What were the social changes in Europe under Napoleon?
Concordat of 1801 saw Church land siezed and and monastries abolished. This inspired peasant risings in France and disturbances in 1809 after the seizure of the Pope.
Attacks on Feudal privileges seigneural rights and courts were challenged and tax exemptions disappeared.
What were the shortcomings of Napoleon’s social changes?
Feudal privileges were translated into government positions and many areas never eradicated feudal rights such as the Poles and was difficult in traditional areas like the Kingdom of Naples.
Brought military conscription.
Opportunities only really opened up to other already wealthy.
