Review: Crossroads: A Meeting of Nations (Napoleon section: “The Rise of Napoleon” through “Napoleon’s Downfall”) Socratic Seminar Worksheet: Napoleon ANSWER KEY - Update your sheets! Section Reference: Chapter on Napoleon Bonaparte (typically pp. 196–213) 1. Strengths & Qualities Brilliant military strategist; used surprise attacks, rapid movement, and flexible battle plans. Excellent motivator—his soldiers were loyal and admired his courage. Intelligent, disciplined, and organized. Rose quickly through merit rather than birth—embodied revolutionary ideals of ability over nobility. ( Crossroads , pp. 200–202) 2. Weaknesses Overconfidence and ambition led him to underestimate enemies (e.g., Russia). Authoritarian tendencies—censored the press, limited women’s rights. Desire for total control alienated allies and created resistance. Couldn’t accept defeat—kept returning to power. ( Crossroads , pp. 208–210) 3. Greatest Contributions Napoleonic Code: ...