Joseph Fouche

ModernPoliticianFrance1759 — 1820

Napoleon's minister of police who betrayed him.

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Quick Facts

Born

1759

Died

1820

Country

France

Era

Modern

Occupation

Politician

Score Overview

Military (10%)50

Political (20%)72

Influence (20%)57

Legacy (20%)54

Leadership (15%)78

Strategy (15%)42

Total Score59.5

Joseph Fouche — Complete Timeline

1799 AD

Appointed Minister of PolicePolitical Action◆ Major

Fouché was appointed Minister of Police by Napoleon Bonaparte. He established an extensive spy network and surveillance system, becoming one of the most powerful figures in France, known for his ruthless efficiency and political maneuvering.

Napoleonic EraPolice StateSurveillance

Impact: national

1804 AD

Organized the Execution of the Duke of EnghienPolitical Action◆ Major

Fouché oversaw the arrest and execution of the Duke of Enghien, a Bourbon prince accused of plotting against Napoleon. The execution was a political murder that shocked European courts and solidified Napoleon's authoritarian rule.

Political RepressionBourbonNapoleon

Impact: regionaldestructive

1814 AD

Betrayed Napoleon and Voted for His DepositionPolitical Action◆ Major

As Napoleon's empire collapsed, Fouch

BetrayalRestorationNapoleon

Impact: national

1816 AD

Exiled as a RegicidePolitical Action

After the Bourbon restoration, Fouch

ExileRegicideBourbon

Impact: nationaltragic