Joséphine de Beauharnais was born on June 23, 1763, in Martinique. She became the first wife of Napoleon Bonaparte, the French military leader who later became Emperor of the French. Joséphine was known for her charm and elegance, which helped her gain influence in French society during a tumultuous period. She married Napoleon in 1796, and their relationship was marked by both passion and challenges. Despite their eventual divorce in 1810, Joséphine remained an important figure in Napoleon's life. She passed away on May 29, 1814, leaving a legacy as a prominent historical figure in French history.