Military reputation and political ambitions of Napoleon Bonaparte

The coup of 1799

Aims and rule of the Directory

Reputation of, and opposition to, the Directory

The inauguration of the Empire

Initiatives as first consul

Nature and impact of reforms (legal, educational, social, and financial)

Napoleon's use of propaganda and other means of control

Early developments in transport: canals and roads

The agricultural revolution

Development of capitalism: investment, trade, and commerce

Early mechanisation: steam engines and spinning machines