The revolution was thrown into oblivion within five years and the French citizens easily accepted Napoleon as their sovereign ruler. From a close study of contemporary events, it seems that at that crucial moment, perhaps, France had no alternative except Napoleon.
Prices of commodities were escalating, currency was devaluating and economic condition was deteriorating. The public of France had become so frustrated due to economic misery that it was willing to forsake lofty ideals and values for the sake of redemption from this pitiable condition.
The Constitution implemented by the National Convention was contrary to the spirit of revolution. Members of the Convention were selfish. They were interested in remaining glued to power. The formation of Directory was a stupendous mistake in the Constitution. All directors brawled with one another. War was the only remedy to cure the fog of dejection. During the reign of Directory, Napoleon spearheaded the wars against Italy and Austria in which he reaped marvellous success. By the time he established peace in Paris, people began to treat him as an epitome of order and discipline. He earned the reputation of a competent ruler and was considered invincible. He was averse to the extremities committed during revolution but he did not overlook its achievements. Hence he endeared himself to everyone by his achievements.
The bourgeoisie (middle class) in France wanted stability and permanancy which only Napoleon could give. He was considered to be the only alternative because all efficient people were killed during the period of revolution.
The Monarchists relied on Napoleon for the revival of age-old system. Neutral persons saw in Napoleon the possibility of peace and order. Intellectual republicans envisaged danger for the republic; but they preferred the rule by an intelligent individual to that of a gang of conspirators.
Incidents which occurred afterward proved that he rapidly brought adverse circumstances under control and made France a centre of glory and power in Europe and all these achievements bear testimony to the inevitability of his reign in France.
