The Code Napoleon, also known as the Napoleonic Code, is a legal framework established in 1804 under the leadership of Napoleon Bonaparte. It aimed to unify and simplify the complex legal systems in France, replacing feudal laws with clear, written statutes. This code emphasized principles like equality before the law, property rights, and civil liberties, making it a significant step towards modern legal systems.
The Code Napoleon has influenced many countries around the world, serving as a model for legal reforms in places like Italy, Spain, and parts of Latin America. Its focus on individual rights and secular law helped shape contemporary legal thought and remains relevant today.