Napoleon was a contradictory historical figure who supported the French Revolution but also crowned himself Emperor, concentrating power. He granted new rights to citizens with the Napoleonic Code but suppressed freedoms. Militarily, he scored major victories across Europe but overextended his forces, leading to devastating defeats in Spain and Russia. By 1815 his empire was defeated at Waterloo, and he died in exile on Saint Helena. His rule helped spread revolutionary ideals and nationalism while confirming France's break from its royal past.