How is the rise of napoleon reactionary?

Answer 1

The rise of Napoleon Bonaparte can be seen as reactionary in that it marked a departure from the revolutionary ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity that characterized the French Revolution. Instead of fostering a democratic government, Napoleon established an authoritarian regime, centralizing power in his hands and curtailing political freedoms. His rule emphasized stability and order over the revolutionary fervor, often reverting to traditional hierarchies and practices, such as the reinstatement of a form of nobility and the promotion of meritocracy that favored loyalty to the state over democratic participation. Thus, while he maintained some revolutionary reforms, his governance ultimately sought to stabilize and control rather than liberate.