What events led to Napoleon's rise of power?

Answer 1

The French Revolution, for one. The chaos that ensued made it abundantly clear that the "reformers" weren't able to control it all.

Answer 2

The French Revolution of 1789 caused a panic among European monarchies. They were afraid that revolution was infectious. Every country declared war on France. The Brisitish in particular laid siege to the French sea port of Toulon. Napoleon, a young officer, organized the defense of Toulon and drove off the Briitish. The Directory promoted Napoleon General. He led a French army out of France and down into Italy to take the war to the European powers. In 1795, Napoleon arranged a new form of government called the Consulate, with himself as First Consul. In April1804, he called a vote as to whether he should become Emperor of the French. He won. In December, 1804, he crowned himself and his empress Josephine.

Answer 3

LOTS of events

The French Revolution
The Terror
The constant wars with the European Monarchs
The Conquest of Italy
The Paris Riots - which finally made Napoleon both friend of the government and still protector of the people of France