Advanced Placement (AP) European History Practice Exam

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How did Napoleon's preservation of representative institutions align with his aims during his rule?

To promote absolute rule without opposition
To comply with traditional monarchy
To present himself as fulfilling the principle of popular sovereignty
To dismantle revolutionary gains

The correct answer is: To present himself as fulfilling the principle of popular sovereignty

Napoleon's preservation of representative institutions served to present himself as a leader who upheld the principle of popular sovereignty, which was central to the ideals of the French Revolution. By maintaining a façade of representation through institutions like the Legislative Corps and the Council of State, he projected an image of a government that reflected the will of the people, despite his autocratic control. This approach allowed him to legitimize his authority and consolidate power in a way that resonated with revolutionary ideals, thus gaining broader acceptance among the populace. The appearance of representative institutions helped to reassure citizens that their voices were still valued, even as he navigated the complexities of a centralized government. This alignment with popular sovereignty was a strategic move to gain support and reduce dissent, contrasting with the other options that suggest a rejection or undermining of the values established during the Revolution.