Napoleon established the Bank of France in 1800 but distrusted bankers, viewing them as profit-driven and unpatriotic. Seeking to free France from debt, he used $3 million in gold from the Louisiana Purchase (negotiated with President Jefferson) to fund his military campaigns. The Bank of England financed opposing nations, fueling widespread debt and conflict.

Napoleon’s campaigns, including the failed invasion of Russia, led to his abdication and exile. Meanwhile, financial powers like the Rothschilds influenced geopolitical outcomes, including funding the Duke of Wellington against Napoleon.

View the video and summary at “12. Napoleon’s Rise To Power”
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