Napoleon Bonaparte was known as "the little corporal" of France, a term that reflects both his modest height and his rise from humble beginnings to become one of history's greatest military leaders and emperors. Starting his career as an artillery officer, Napoleon gained fame through brilliant military tactics and campaign successes during the French Revolutionary Wars. His leadership of France and subsequent establishment of the Napoleonic Code had a lasting impact on France and throughout Europe. His ambitious expansionist policies and eventual downfall significantly influenced the course of European history, leading to changes in governance and international relations.