Latest news with #NapoleonBonaparte
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Sleep like a Princess in the Glow of the Eiffel Tower at Shangri-La Paris
Sleep like a Princess in the Glow of the Eiffel Tower at Shangri-La Paris originally appeared on L.A. Mag. As a girl who read Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale The Princess and the Pea over and over again, I have long dreamed of sleeping in a royal palace. So, when the Shangri-La Group invited me to visit such a palace, a chance to bed down in pure opulence like a pampered princess in a room aglow with the warm and sometimes twinkling lights of the Eiffel Tower and the Seine river, I packed my tiara. The five-star Shangri-La Paris was once the private residence of Napoleon Bonaparte's grandnephew, the botanist and member of the turn-of-the-century Parisian literati crowd, Prince Roland Bonaparte. The hotel now has 100 perfectly appointed rooms and suites that Shangri-La likes to describe as an embodiment of 'the quintessence of Asian hospitality and French art de vivre,' and it did not disappoint. The Shangri-La Paris is situated in what is known as the city's 16th arrondissement, which makes it centrally located to luxury fashion houses, café life and museums, including the Musée d'Art Moderne. Even better, travelers are invited to experience a host of curated experiences that lean into its new international campaign, "Eat, Play, Love," and that we did. Eating was pure joy at Shang Palace, the fine dining establishment that offers haute Asian cuisine, which was so extraordinary that it's easy to see why it earned the first Michelin Star for any Chinese eatery in Paris. Then there was the butler curated Pique Nique Chic, the fancy French way to picnic, a the Champ de Mars under the world-famous La Dame de Fer, or Iron Lady's. Nothing like toasting breathtaking views with some bubbly and artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, fresh fruits, and oh-so elegant finger sandwiches. Play came in the form of zipping through picturesque Paris in a vintage Citroën 2CV for a visit to the cobbled streets of Montmartre, an artists' mecca centered by the world famous Basilica of the Sacré-Cœur, the highest summit in the city that offers commanding 360-views. The Shangri-La organized a private visit to the Montmartre Museum, once the home of Pierre-Auguste Renoir, who painted two of his exquisite works, "La Balançoire" and "Le Bal du Moulin de la Galette," in its gorgeous gardens. As part of this spectacular and unique experience, a local artist sketched my portrait, which is a perfect Parisian memento I will treasure. For Love, it came in the form of self-love with a glorious massage at the hotel's Chi spa, centered around an indoor 56-foot infinity pool awash in natural light. And, of course, the love that comes with exploring Paris on foot along the River Seine, which runs through the heart of the city of light. All of it made me feel very much like a princess This story was originally reported by L.A. Mag on Jun 1, 2025, where it first appeared.
Irish Times
26-05-2025
- Sport
- Irish Times
Rugby's 20-minute red card is a dangerous departure that risks devaluing the importance of player safety
'A good sketch is better than a long speech.' So spoke Napoleon Bonaparte, who was probably outlining a battle plan at the time. Those words came to mind following news from World Rugby that the 20-minute red card will now be trialled global. In case you hadn't heard, this refers to instances where a player is red carded but their indiscretion is deemed unintentional. In such cases, the player will still be sent off, but his team will be able to bring on a replacement after 20 minutes. We will see it in operation during the Lions tour . This is no surprise and nobody should be shocked. It has already been in place in southern hemisphere rugby for several years. Reasonable people understand the merits involved when serious foul play borders on the accidental or unavoidable. However, when it consists of slamming a shoulder into an opponent's face, for example, it is debatable whether the 20-minute red card should even be considered. READ MORE Let's think about the emperor's words in today's parlance. It would be very helpful if World Rugby drew us a modern-day sketch. By this, I mean video clips of what we can expect, including straight reds given in the past that would now lead to a replacement being introduced. They will have plenty of examples and could easily splice it together in an informative little movie. Is French club rugby becoming more popular than Ligue 1? Listen | 20:26 Bordeaux seem to represent a rare enough phenomenon; a domestic rugby team growing in both on-field and commercial success. They are the best attended club in France, to the extent they can boast to be more popular than the local football team. We all know of their on-field talent, the likes of Louis Bielle-Biarrey, Damian Penaud and Mathieu Jalibert playing a brand of rugby which is easy on the eye. Of course, with Joey Carbery and Noel McNamara involved, there is Irish interest in the French side as they prepare for Saturday's Champions Cup final. But how has the on-field product built into their off-field success? Is their rise an indication of France's domestic success, as rugby's television rights continues to dwarf those of football's Ligue 1? To what extent can this story be repeated elsewhere?Host Nathan Johns is joined on the podcast by France-based rugby journalist James by John Casey. We did see one clip in the Challenge Cup final. Bath's Sam Underhill smashed head-on-head into Lyon fullback Davit Niniashvili. It was a horrible collision. Unfortunately, referee Hollie Davidson misread it, deeming that a so-called step inside by Niniashvili was sufficient to mitigate to yellow. The referee clearly erred, with a chunk of criticism also to be laid at the door of the TMO, Mike Adamson, who failed to steer Davidson in the direction of a red card. Unsurprisingly, it has been cited. While the right team won, the referee will review her overall performance with a measure of disappointment. We've all been there – it comes with the job. In sniper mode, Underhill had a clear line of sight to the target before he pulled the trigger. He didn't miss. When the global trial kicks off, this high-level foul play will go to the bunker. It's hard to believe that those in high places think this is what the game needs. It is, we are told, designed to punish the player, but not to punish the team or the spectacle. Balancing safety with spectacle is an impossible task. Inevitably, it removes the safety element from its priority position. An extra 10 minutes of bin time cannot possibly have the same deterrent effect as straight reds. Lengthy suspensions and fines for coaches were perhaps alternative options, but turkeys have a habit of not voting for Christmas. The global trial announcement also informs us that referees can issue a straight red if they deem it appropriate. Oh, come on. Pull the other one! The evidence to date simply does not back that up. Referees send everything to the bunker and once it arrives there, it cannot be upgraded to a straight red. Nika Amashukeli shows a yellow card to Tommy Freeman of Northampton Saints (not pictured) during last Saturday's Champions Cup final in Cardiff. Photograph:The minuscule number of straight reds given down south have been for truly heinous acts. Stamping, kicking, eye gouging, head butts and targeting the lower limbs at breakdown will, rightly, still see red. Dangerous collisions to the head, such as Underhill's, are not mentioned, despite being the primary cause of brain injury. Recently, this column outlined an incident in a southern hemisphere fixture. It involved a spear tackle by the Blues' Mark Tele'a on his Reds opponent Tim Ryan. It went to the bunker, so Tele'a was replaced. The judiciary subsequently handed him a paltry three-match ban. If that's what we can expect, then this global trial decision risks being remembered as one of rugby's blackest days. Referee Nika Amashukeli has found himself in many interesting matches. However, last Saturday's Champions Cup final provided him with a new level of difficulty. It was nonstop pressure-cooker stuff and both halves were like chalk and cheese. Bordeaux supporters will rarely have watched their team resort to a kicking game to grind out a win. Having dominated the first half with a blistering display of creative rugby, they found that Northampton had somehow hung in there. They evened things up on the stroke of half-time with a try by the superb Alex Coles. He was then subjected to a defender sliding into him, knees first. It wasn't the worst cheap shot of its kind, but it warranted a penalty. The second half saw a complete switch of tactics. Maxime Lucu and Matthieu Jalibert, kicking well and repeatedly, pinned the Northampton team in their own backyard, while French forward power supplied the only try of the half. This altered approach kept Northampton scoreless after half-time, which was quite some feat. [ Why are so many young Irish rugby players moving to France? Opens in new window ] [ Matt Williams: Decision to abandon men's Sevens programme has shattered the dreams of generations of players Opens in new window ] There are few referees who could have come out of this torrid, attritional affair as well as the Georgian. The TMO, Marius Jonker, was also highly involved, some say too much. There was an unusually high number of critical moments and failing to advise the referee would not have pleased the teams' coaches, who demand microscopic perfection. Having let the players get on with things in a magical first half, Amashukeli became much busier as the match went into dogfight mode. Nobody would contend that every refereeing decision was right as that's never going to happen. But it was a fine performance by the man in the middle, notable for his typical calm assuredness. At least half a dozen of his ilk are needed, but they don't appear to be emerging. So, the European season ends with a deserved French victory – their fifth in succession. Who can halt their Napoleonic march towards a sixth? It won't be easy.
Time Magazine
23-05-2025
- General
- Time Magazine
The Top 10 Military Leaders of All Time According to AI
This article is published by a partner of TIME. Throughout history, military leaders have shaped the fate of nations and civilizations. Their strategies, vision, and ability to lead on the battlefield have determined the outcomes of wars, the rise and fall of empires, and the evolution of military thought. From ancient generals to modern military commanders, these leaders have made decisions that resonate through history and influenced both warfare and politics. Time and again, military leaders have shown remarkable brilliance, leading their forces through perilous circumstances, outsmarting their enemies, and achieving victory against overwhelming odds. Their ability to command, inspire, and adapt to ever-changing battlefields has earned them a lasting place in military history. This article takes a closer look at the top 10 military leaders of all time, whose leadership and tactics have left an indelible impact on both history and the practice of warfare. Compiled using research assistance from ChatGPT, this list features military figures whose strategies and leadership set the standard for generations. While the order and picks may be subjective, these commanders stand out for their exceptional accomplishments, military innovations, and enduring legacies. Top Military Leaders in History 1. Alexander the Great Alexander the Great, one of the most famous conquerors in history, established one of the largest empires the world had ever seen. Born in 356 BC in Macedonia, Alexander's military campaigns led him to conquer Greece, Persia, Egypt, and parts of India, creating an empire that spanned three continents. His innovative tactics, such as the use of the phalanx formation and strategic intelligence, allowed him to defeat much larger armies. Though his life was cut short at the age of 32, his empire and his influence on global history endured long after his death. Additional Insights: Conquests: His empire stretched from Greece to India, covering diverse and vast territories. Battle tactics: Pioneered the use of the phalanx formation, which was highly effective in battle. Leadership: Known for inspiring loyalty and devotion in his troops. Legacy: Helped spread Greek culture across the known world during the Hellenistic era. Key victories: Achieved major victories at the Battle of Issus and the Battle of Gaugamela. Cultural impact: His conquests led to the establishment of Greek-speaking cities across the Middle East and Asia. 2. Napoleon Bonaparte Napoleon Bonaparte, the French military leader and emperor, is often hailed as one of the greatest military tacticians in history. His campaigns, most notably during the Napoleonic Wars, redefined modern warfare through rapid maneuvers, battlefield organization, and his innovative use of artillery and cavalry. Napoleon's strategic mind led him to dominate much of Europe, expanding the French Empire across the continent. However, his ambition ultimately led to his downfall, as his defeat at the Battle of Waterloo marked the end of his reign. Additional Insights: Tactics: Famous for his innovative use of the "central point of attack" and the speed of his military campaigns. Reforms: Introduced the Napoleonic Code, which influenced civil law systems worldwide. Key battles: His victories at Austerlitz and Jena solidified his place as one of history's greatest commanders. Downfall: His defeat at Waterloo and subsequent exile to Saint Helena marked the end of his empire. Political impact: His reign changed the political landscape of Europe and resulted in the rise of nationalism. Military legacy: Many of his strategies are still studied in military academies around the world. 3. Genghis Khan Genghis Khan, born as Temujin in the 12th century, founded the Mongol Empire, which became the largest contiguous empire in history. A brilliant strategist and tactician, he united the Mongol tribes and led them in a series of conquests across Asia and Europe. Known for his ruthless methods, including psychological warfare, Genghis Khan's military genius allowed him to defeat vastly larger armies. His empire spanned from China to Europe and left a lasting impact on the regions it conquered, especially in the areas of trade and cultural exchange. Additional Insights: Empire expansion: His empire stretched to Eastern Europe, including China, Central Asia, and Persia. Leadership: United diverse Mongol tribes and established an efficient, disciplined military. Tactics: Used rapid cavalry, espionage, and psychological warfare to overwhelm opponents. Cultural influence: Encouraged trade and cultural exchange across his empire, facilitating the Silk Road. Legacy: His descendants, including Kublai Khan, continued to expand and consolidate the empire. Historical impact: Genghis Khan's reign brought major cultural and political changes to Asia and Europe. 4. Julius Caesar Julius Caesar, the Roman general and statesman, was a key figure in the transition from the Roman Republic to the Roman Empire. Caesar's military career was defined by his conquest of Gaul, where he expanded Rome's territories and made his name as a brilliant strategist. His eventual crossing of the Rubicon and the ensuing civil war against Pompey marked the end of the Roman Republic. His assassination in 44 BC, though dramatic, was a turning point in Roman history, leading to the rise of the Roman Empire. Additional Insights: Gaul conquest: Caesar's conquest of Gaul greatly expanded Roman territory and established his military reputation. Military leadership: Known for his ability to motivate and lead his troops, even in difficult circumstances. Civil war: His victory over Pompey marked the end of the Roman Republic and the start of the Roman Empire. Key battles: Led successful campaigns at the Battle of Alesia and the Battle of Pharsalus. Political reforms: Introduced reforms, including the Julian calendar, which have had a lasting impact. Legacy: His reign set the stage for the imperial system of government in Rome. 5. Winston Churchill Winston Churchill, the British Prime Minister during World War II, is remembered for his leadership during the darkest hours of the war. His speeches and unwavering resolve rallied the British people, helping them withstand the Blitz and the threat of invasion by Nazi Germany. As a military leader, Churchill was instrumental in planning key operations like the D-Day landings and forging important alliances with Roosevelt and Stalin. His leadership not only shaped the outcome of World War II but also helped to define the post-war global order. Additional Insights: World War II leadership: Known for inspiring British resilience during the Nazi onslaught. Diplomatic strategy: Played a crucial role in forming wartime alliances with the U.S. and the Soviet Union. Tactical leadership: Contributed to key military strategies, including the Allied invasion of Normandy. Oratory skills: His speeches, like "We shall never surrender," galvanized the British population. Post-war impact: Played a significant role in shaping post-war European and global politics. Legacy: Churchill's legacy as a wartime leader endures, influencing military and political leaders worldwide. 6. General Dwight D. Eisenhower Dwight D. Eisenhower, the Supreme Commander of the Allied Expeditionary Force during World War II, was responsible for the strategic planning and execution of Operation Overlord, the D-Day invasion. His ability to coordinate complex operations between the British, American, and Canadian forces was crucial in securing victory in Europe. Eisenhower's leadership helped maintain cohesion among diverse military and political groups, leading to the eventual defeat of Nazi Germany. After the war, Eisenhower served as the 34th President of the United States, continuing to influence military policy and international diplomacy. Additional Insights: D-Day: Oversaw the planning and execution of the successful Allied invasion of Normandy. Leadership style: Known for his diplomacy and ability to unite different Allied forces under one cause. Post-war presidency: Served as U.S. President, influencing Cold War-era military policy. Tactical approach: Advocated for a balanced approach to strategy, emphasizing preparation and coordination. Key campaigns: Led operations in North Africa and Italy before taking command in Europe. Legacy: Eisenhower's leadership set the foundation for post-war American military strategies. 7. Horatio Nelson Admiral Horatio Nelson was the British naval hero whose tactical brilliance during the Napoleonic Wars ensured British naval supremacy for decades. His most famous victory came at the Battle of Trafalgar, where he decisively defeated the combined French and Spanish fleets, securing Britain's control of the seas. Nelson's unorthodox tactics, often at great personal risk, and his ability to inspire his men made him a legendary figure in naval history. Despite his death in battle, Nelson's victory at Trafalgar sealed his legacy. Additional Insights: Battle of Trafalgar: Led Britain to a decisive victory that ensured naval superiority over France and Spain. Leadership: Known for his charismatic and fearless leadership, even when facing overwhelming odds. Tactical innovation: Broke traditional naval formations, achieving success with more aggressive strategies. Personal sacrifice: Died during the Battle of Trafalgar, cementing his status as a martyr and hero. Naval legacy: His tactics continue to be studied in naval war colleges today. Impact on Britain: His victory solidified Britain's dominance on the seas for the next century. 8. General George S. Patton General George S. Patton was one of the most colorful and controversial American military figures during World War II. His leadership of the Third Army during the liberation of France and his role in the Battle of the Bulge made him one of the most famous American commanders. Known for his aggressive tactics and ability to inspire his troops, Patton's unconventional methods sometimes led to friction with other leaders but ultimately contributed to his success on the battlefield. His leadership style continues to be studied by military professionals worldwide. Additional Insights: Battle of the Bulge: Played a critical role in the Allied counteroffensive during the Battle of the Bulge. Aggressive leadership: Known for his bold and unorthodox military strategies. Controversial personality: His outspoken nature and strict leadership style made him a polarizing figure. Key campaigns: Led successful campaigns in Sicily, France, and Germany. Legacy: Patton's leadership and tactics are still studied in military academies. Cultural impact: His legacy endures through films and books, where he is portrayed as a symbol of military excellence. 9. Field Marshal Erwin Rommel Erwin Rommel, the 'Desert Fox,' was a German field marshal renowned for his leadership during the North African campaign in World War II. His innovative tactics and mastery of desert warfare made him a formidable opponent. Rommel's ability to outmaneuver the Allied forces in North Africa earned him respect from both his enemies and his own troops. While ultimately defeated, his strategic brilliance remains highly regarded in military history. Additional Insights: North Africa campaign: Known for his innovative use of mechanized units in the desert. Leadership: Respected for his ability to motivate and lead his troops under harsh conditions. Tactical brilliance: Used deception and surprise to outmaneuver superior Allied forces. Posthumous reputation: Rommel's reputation as a skilled and honorable leader endures, even though he fought for the Axis powers. Battle of El Alamein: Despite early successes, Rommel's forces were eventually defeated at El Alamein. Legacy: Rommel's tactics are still studied by military professionals today. 10. General Douglas MacArthur General Douglas MacArthur was one of the most prominent American military leaders of the 20th century, known for his leadership during World War II and the Korean War. He was instrumental in the Pacific Theater, overseeing the successful campaigns against Japan. MacArthur's ability to combine strategy, diplomacy, and force made him a respected figure, but his later role in Korea was marked by controversy, leading to his dismissal by President Truman. Despite this, his leadership during the post-war occupation of Japan helped rebuild the country and shape its future. Additional Insights: Pacific campaign: Oversaw the successful island-hopping strategy that led to the defeat of Japan. Leadership: Known for his charisma and confidence, which inspired both admiration and criticism. Post-war role: Led the occupation of Japan, overseeing significant reforms and rebuilding efforts. Korean War: His dismissal during the Korean War remains a controversial aspect of his career. Key battles: Played a pivotal role in the Battle of Leyte Gulf and the invasion of the Philippines. Legacy: MacArthur's influence on post-war Japan and American military strategy remains significant. Conclusion on Top Military Leaders The military leaders highlighted in this article were not only tactical geniuses but also influential figures whose decisions and actions shaped the course of history. Their ability to lead, inspire, and strategize in the face of overwhelming challenges earned them lasting legacies that continue to be studied and admired. These leaders not only changed the outcomes of wars but also influenced the evolution of warfare itself, leaving behind lessons that resonate to this day. While we acknowledge the immense impact these military leaders had on history, it's important to remember that war has caused tremendous suffering for countless individuals and communities. Many people feel deep sorrow and loss due to the lives lost in conflicts, and the devastating consequences of war are felt long after the battles end. Though the tactics and decisions of these leaders may have shaped the world in significant ways, it's essential to approach the topic with empathy, understanding that the human cost of war is a painful reality that affects not only soldiers but also families, cultures, and nations. These are the leaders that ChatGPT identified based on their strategic genius and lasting legacies, but we must always honor the memories of those who suffered and died in the conflicts they led. Related Articles: About the Authors: Richard D. Harroch is a Senior Advisor to CEOs, management teams, and Boards of Directors. He is an expert on M&A, venture capital, startups, and business contracts. He was the Managing Director and Global Head of M&A at VantagePoint Capital Partners, a venture capital fund in the San Francisco area. His focus is on internet, digital media, AI and technology companies. He was the founder of several Internet companies. His articles have appeared online in Forbes, Fortune, MSN, Yahoo, Fox Business and Richard is the author of several books on startups and entrepreneurship as well as the co-author of Poker for Dummies and a Wall Street Journal-bestselling book on small business. He is the co-author of a 1,500-page book published by Bloomberg on mergers and acquisitions of privately held companies. He was also a corporate and M&A partner at the international law firm of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe. He has been involved in over 200 M&A transactions and 250 startup financings. He can be reached through LinkedIn. Dominique Harroch is the Chief of Staff at She has acted as a Chief of Staff or Operations Leader for multiple companies where she leveraged her extensive experience in operations management, strategic planning, and team leadership to drive organizational success. With a background that spans over two decades in operations leadership, event planning at her own start-up and marketing at various financial and retail companies. Dominique is known for her ability to optimize processes, manage complex projects and lead high-performing teams. She holds a BA in English and Psychology from U.C. Berkeley and an MBA from the University of San Francisco. She can be reached via LinkedIn.
Roya News
23-05-2025
- General
- Roya News
Napoleon's sword sold for €4.7 Million in Paris auction
A sword commissioned personally by Napoleon Bonaparte sold Thursday evening in Paris for nearly EUR 4.7 million, approaching the world record for Napoleonic artifacts sold at auction, the Hôtel Drouot auction house announced Friday. The weapon fetched EUR 4.66 million (including fees), according to officials at Hôtel Drouot, where the auction was held by the Giquello auction house. Originally estimated between EUR 700,000 and EUR 1 million, the sword came close to the current world record of EUR 4.8 million, set in 2007 by the sale of the sword Napoleon used during the Battle of Marengo. This latest sale places the piece among the most valuable Napoleonic relics ever auctioned. Napoleon, then First Consul, commissioned the sword between 1802 and 1803 from Nicolas-Noël Boutet, the famed director of the Versailles arms factory and considered the greatest gunsmith of his era. After becoming Emperor, Napoleon kept the sword until the end of his reign, later gifting it to one of his most loyal generals, Emmanuel de Grouchy, whom he eventually promoted to the empire's final marshal. The sword remained in the possession of Grouchy's descendants for generations. A second, identical version of the sword, also commissioned by Napoleon, is on display at the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia.
Local France
22-05-2025
- General
- Local France
Is the Napoleonic Code really still in force in France?
If you are looking to move to France - or you are seeking out the warnings and advice of foreigners already living here - you might be cautioned that "France still has the Napoleonic code in place". This warning may conjure up images of a person being sent to a remote island as punishment, but the Napoleonic code is not as antiquated as it might sound. In fact, much of the original code is still in use today, though of course there have been many amendments over the years. What is the Napoleonic code? The Napoleonic code is also known as the Code Civile des Français, and it was enacted in 1804, just a few years after Napoleon Bonaparte took power. It was not the world's first civil law system, but it was one of the most influential - and remains an influence on the laws of modern France and many other countries. Advertisement After taking power, Napoleon took it upon himself to deal with the patchy mess that was France's legal system. Prior to the Revolution, there was no secular, civil code covering the entire territory. Instead, there were feudal laws that differed from place to place, while the church enforced rules related to family, marriage and personal behaviour. During the Revolution, the feudal system and the Catholic church were stripped of much of their power in France, with many of their previous rules repealed. For example, homosexuality was decriminalised and slavery outlawed. Napoleon commissioned four jurists to draft the legal code, and he headed up the committee as chairman. The final version of 1804 was encompassed four 'books' ( livres ), covering 'people', 'property', 'different manners of acquiring property', and 'procedure' (the latter was eventually withdrawn). The Napoleonic code may be seen as modern and progressive in some ways - as it strengthened secularism and created a concept of equal rights enshrined by the law (for men). However, it was very patriarchal, walking back much of the progress women made during the Revolution and making them ' minors ' under the law. According to Vie-Publique , it "deprived women of legal rights, making them subject to the authority of their father and husband." These days, although the framework of the Napoleonic code remains in place, many parts have been either repealed or modified. Much if it has also been superceded by more recent domestic laws or international protocols such as the European Convention on Human Rights. During the 20th century, large segments of the civil law were reformed and rewritten to better reflect modern France. Advertisement For example, the loi 85-1372 of December 1985 reformed part of the 'Napoleonic code', granting spouses "joint management of the community life" and removing any references to 'husband or wife' to emphasise equality of spouses. You can actually read through the 'Code Civile' that is currently active on the LegiFrance website. So why do people still warn about the 'Napoleonic code'? If someone warns you about this it's likely that they're talking about French rules about inheritance that came in via the Napoleonic code, and which remain in effect today (with some modernising portions). While the Napoleonic code in its original form was kind of an attempt at marrying the traditional ideas of the Ancien Régime with the liberalism of the Revolution, Napoleon's approach to inheritance was a stark move away from the feudal system. Advertisement Previously, the estate would be passed down to the oldest male heir. This created the tradition of the second son joining the military, and then the third son joining the clergy (hence the term cadet for younger children). Napoleonic law made legitimate children equal in their right to the same portion of the parents' estate. There was a distinction for 'illegitimate' children, but this was amended in the 1970s. Today, the same idea is applied in French law - it is illegal to disinherit children, and they are all entitled to a portion of the estate. This applies to French people and also foreign residents or property owners - and it frequently causes consternation among foreigners as France is one of very few countries to have this system. READ MORE: Death and taxes: What you need to know about estate planning in France Napoleon's influence is still visible in many aspects of French life, from the invention of the lycée (secondary school) system to the Legion of Honor ( Légion d'honneur ). If you plan on applying for French citizenship (or if you're just interested) you can study up on his contributions to France in the Livret du Citoyen. READ MORE: What is France's 'Livret du Citoyen' and why might it be vital to you
