Napoleon came to power in France primarily through a coup d'état in November 1799, known as the Coup of 18-19 Brumaire (November 9-10, 1799). At that time, France was governed by the unstable and corrupt Directory following the French Revolution. Napoleon, a successful and popular military leader, took advantage of this political instability and growing public dissatisfaction. With support from influential figures like Emmanuel-Joseph Sieyès and his own brother Lucien, who was president of the lower chamber, he orchestrated the coup, using military force to intimidate the legislative councils. During the coup, faced with resistance, Napoleon demonstrated political and military strength, including a dramatic moment where Lucien Bonaparte drew a sword to defend him against opponents. The coup led to the resignation of the Directory and the establishment of the French Consulate. Napoleon was then positioned as the First Consul with near-dictatorial powers under the new Constitution of the Year VIII, approved by a referendum. Later, through successive referendums and consolidations of power, he became First Consul for life in 1802 and in 1804 declared himself Emperor of the French, thus establishing a hereditary empire.
Key factors for his rise were his military reputation, exploitation of political weaknesses of the revolutionary leaders, strategic alliances, and his own ambition and political skill.
