The control of the Grand Empire: administration; economic and social policies
Napoleon ruled a vast European empire by installing loyal rulers, exporting French laws, and using economic policies to bind conquered territories to France. He tried to govern dozens of different nations as a single system.
Real World
Placing his brother Joseph on the Spanish throne in 1808 is directly comparable to a modern occupying power installing a friendly government — the locals saw Joseph as a foreign puppet, fuelling the guerrilla resistance that became the Peninsular War.
Exam Focus
For 'how far' questions on imperial control, use the dependent kingdoms and the Continental System as evidence on both sides — administrative reach versus practical resistance.
Essay Framework
Use PEEL to structure every paragraph. Tap each step for guidance and an example.
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