Napoleon I
Napoleon I, or Napoleon Bonaparte, was the ruler of France when the Louisiana Purchase was transacted. He was born in Ajaccio on the island of Corsica. Napoleon was one of the greatest military commanders in history. It can be said that he was the greatest military genius of his time.
Napoleon Bonaparte is both a historical figure and a legend. According to legend, he stood only 5 foot 2 inches tall, but in reality he was 5 foot 6 inches tall. He introduced many reforms to France. By himself, he led complex military maneuvers while also controlling the press, the police system, foreign policy, and domestic policy.
On January 16, 1785, at the age of 16, Napoleon received a commission in the French Army as a 2nd lieutenant of artillery. He was promoted to first lieutenant in 1791 and to captain in 1792.
Napoleon proved to be a great administrator. He won many battles for France, but suffered his greatest defeat at Waterloo in northern France. Napoleon was exiled to St. Helena on October 15, 1815, and died at Longwood on St. Helena May 5, 1821.