First Consul
Definition
The title assumed by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1799 after the fall of the Directory government in France. It marked his rise to power and was a step towards his later self-declaration as Emperor.
Analogy
Think of the First Consul like the CEO of a company. Just as a CEO has ultimate control over their company, Napoleon had ultimate control over France when he became First Consul.
Related terms
Consulate: This was the French government established after the Coup of 18 Brumaire in 1799, which ended with Napoleon's proclamation as Emperor in 1804.
Coup d'etat: A sudden overthrow of a government, often involving violent or illegal means. In this case, it refers to Napoleon's seizure of power in France.
Napoleon Bonaparte: A French military and political leader who rose to prominence during the latter stages of the French Revolution and its associated wars.
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