Nationalism Vs Napoleon

Nationalism, the vast encompassing term used to link such concepts as cultural identity, patriotism, national identity, loyalty and sharing of land. Nationalism can also include the civic aspects of a nation such as the consensus among a group to follow common laws and the agreement to perform certain duties so the said nation can function (i.e. vote, become educated, pay taxes, provide defense in tumultuous times). To provide better insight into such a complex topic, Nationalism can also be contrasted to the principles of religion as both share many similar characteristics. For example both ideologies involve the gathering of followers through belief in higher power, whether that be a god or a political system. The institutionalization of those followers, in religion these are the holy principles and rules that disciples must obey, in nationalism these are the laws and societal dues a citizen must pay tribute to. Lastly the sense of identity that accompanies both systems and pride in the following of either. In fact one could argue that religion is a precursor to nationalism, since before Napoleon,
There was no longer a higher power to fear and attackers were threatening from every front. Then came Napoleon, his grand armee and the concept of nationalism. Without Napoleon I believe nationalism wouldn't have made the leaps it did in such a small amount of time and revolution wouldn’t have swept across across europe after his defeat. That being said Napoleon was a manipulative tyrant whose liberal speeches and ideals didn't equate to his increasingly authoritarian and colonial actions. Although his policies brought order and stability, it came at the cost of essential freedoms and forced many to give up their way of life. I would say nationalism is the child of both Napoleon and the revolutionaries who fought against him. Napoleon planted the seed and the people helped it