Constitution of the First French Empire
The constitution of the First French Empire of May 18, 1804 (officially French: Sénatus-consulte organique du 28 floréal an XII ) designated Napoleon Bonaparte as Emperor of the French . It was replaced on June 4, 1814 by the Charte constitutionnelle , which reintroduced kingship.
It was drawn up by the Constitutional Council ( Sénat conservateur ) at the request of Napoleon, who was then the first consul for life, and confirmed by a referendum on November 6, 1804.
The text, consisting of 142 articles, established the First Empire ( Premier Empire ) in France . The first two articles determine that France is ruled by an emperor ('Empereur') and that Napoleon Bonaparte is that emperor.
Articles 3 to 8 regulate that in the event of Napoleon's death, the imperial dignity passes to his male descendants. Articles 9 to 16 raise the members of the imperial family to the rank of prince, but also stipulate that they may not marry without the consent of the emperor.
Through the introduction of six ore offices ( Grandes Dignités ) and other high-ranking positions ( Grands Officiers ), the constitution partially restored nobility privileges.
Two new Senate commissions were set up to investigate arbitrary arrests and abuse of censorship. In constitutional practice, these commissions only gave advice, but did not stipulate any sanctions.
Web links
- Senatus Consultum of May 18, 1804 on verfassungen.eu (German)