Based on the description of feudalism given in the lesson,

Question

analyze how Napoleon’s new ruling class resembled
feudalistic relationships of Louis XVI’s time. (1 point)
Napoleon implemented a system in which he granted titles
and land to people who would support him financially.
Napoleon created the Council of the Ancients and the
Council of 500, with himself at the top as consul.
Napoleon divided people between the Legion of Honor
and taxpayers, similar to the Estates-General.
Napoleon brought back the old ruling class that Louis XVI
had used.

Answer 1

Napoleon's new ruling class resembled feudalistic relationships of Louis XVI's time in several ways.

Firstly, like feudal lords, Napoleon granted titles and land to individuals who supported him financially. This system of rewarding loyalty with land and titles closely resembled the feudal practice of granting fiefs to vassals in return for their military support.

Secondly, the structure of government created by Napoleon, consisting of the Council of the Ancients and the Council of 500, with himself at the top as consul, mirrored the hierarchical structure of feudalism. In feudal societies, power was concentrated in the hands of the monarch, who held the ultimate authority. Similarly, Napoleon placed himself at the pinnacle of political power, with the councils acting as his subordinates.

Furthermore, Napoleon's division of people between the Legion of Honor and taxpayers was reminiscent of the Estates-General in Louis XVI's time. Feudal society was organized into different estates, such as the clergy, nobility, and commoners. Similarly, Napoleon categorized individuals into different groups based on their contribution to the state, allocating privileges and recognition accordingly.

Lastly, by bringing back the old ruling class that Louis XVI had used, Napoleon perpetuated the idea of hereditary privilege and social inequality. Feudalism was characterized by a rigid social hierarchy, with the nobility enjoying privileges and status by virtue of their birth. Similarly, Napoleon sought to consolidate power by reinstating the aristocracy and reinstating their positions of authority.

In summary, Napoleon's new ruling class resembled feudalistic relationships by granting land and titles, mirroring the hierarchical structure of government, dividing people based on contributions, and reintroducing the old ruling class of Louis XVI's time.