Careers Open to Talent

 -This was a revolutionary idea. Napoleon appointed and promoted men to high offices in
the State on merit or talent irregardless of one’s origin or social class.
 -For example many of Napoleon’s Generals were men of lowly birth e. g Murat who was
given charge of the Cisalphine Republic was the son of an innkeeper.
 -The principle of the career opened to talent undoubtedly accounts for much of the strength
of France at this time.
Public Works
 Napoleon also introduced great schemes of work in France which permanently beautified
and enriched France
 He initiated infrastructural development in France canals and ports were greatly improved
and aided the expansion of industry
 Marshes were drained while sea ports were enlarged and fortified
 Museums were founded and the Louvre completed and filled with the priceless treasures
stolen from Italy
 Palaces like Fontainebleau were restored
These public works did not only beautify and enrich France but they also created employment to
the local people hence Napoleon was very successful in public works.