“Napoleon’s military reputation was the most important factor in his rise to political power.” Discuss.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the contribution made by Napoleon’s military reputation to his rise to political power. The weakness of the Directory including: financial instability, political instability and threats, such as Vendémiaire and Prairial; was underlined by its increasing reliance on the military. Sieyès and others began to look for a “strong man” to head a coup and Napoleon was identified as a candidate because of his military reputation (he was one of three potential candidates.) After Brumaire, Napoleon was made Consul and then used this as a base to extend his political power as First Consul and later Emperor. Some may argue that it was his military reputation that made him a potential candidate, others may argue that it was his skill as a propagandist that contributed to his rise to power. Candidates may argue that there would have been no opportunity for a military coup without the inherent weakness of the Directory. Candidates may choose to agree, partly agree or disagree with the statement.