Empress Joséphine, born Marie Josèphe Rose Tascher de La Pagerie in 1763, was the first wife of Napoleon Bonaparte and the first Empress of the French. She married Napoleon in 1796, and their union played a significant role in his rise to power. Joséphine was known for her charm, elegance, and love of art and gardening, particularly at her estate, Malmaison. Despite their deep affection, the couple's marriage faced challenges, particularly due to Joséphine's inability to produce an heir. In 1810, Napoleon divorced her to marry Marie Louise of Austria in hopes of securing a successor. Joséphine remained a beloved figure until her death in 1814.