The Napoleonic Code

         Napoleon helped to overthrow the government of France in 1799. After he seized power, he adopted the title First Consul. Then he set out to harmonize and improve French life. He also ordered his officials to reorganize the laws in the Napoleonic Code, which is also called the Civil Code. “It was one of his most greatest achievements.” (3) The Napoleonic Code gives us the right of equality, the right to hold property, freedom of religion, and freedom to pursue work. This code is still used in civil law in Quebec and Louisiana.

        Unfortunately, women lost rights under the code. The Napoleonic Code was responsible for putting women under the control of their father or husband. This enabled men to order their daughters and wives around, and was allowed to punish them if they disobeyed. Women also didn’t have any rights to property unless if it was under her inheritance or if she had permission from her husband or father. All because of the Napoleonic Code women felt betrayed and did not get their rights back until Napoleon had passed. Napoleon had thought that women were a lower ranking than men. Therefore, “his views on the rights of women found their way into law.” (4)