Napoleon was a multifaceted man who left behind a mixed legacy. It seems that for all the good he did for his country, there was a hidden motive; for every brilliant decision, an outrageous one. Looking over all of Napoleon's achievements, one might be tempted to think that the tyrannous things that Napoleon did perfectly counteracted his heroic acts. While this balance is almost the same, the scale tips in one distinct direction. After thorough examination, it is easy to see Napoleon for what he truly is- a hero. A ruthless, power-hungry hero, but a hero nonetheless.

Even at his beginnings, Napoleon showed glorious promise. At the ago of 26, Bonaparte got a chance for glory. At the siege of Toulon, in 1795, he had the opportunity to display his ability as an artillery officer. After having played a key role in displacing the British, Napoleon was made a brigadier...