The Media Library of Genesee Valley BOCES

The greatest commander of modern history, Napoleon Bonaparte came to power through the turmoil of the French Revolution of 1789, and by 1804 crowned himself Emperor. The program focuses on the Battle of Austerlitz, a spectacular victory against Russia and Austria, which secured his reputation

Describes how the French Revolution began in Paris with a riot of starving citizens

Describes the efforts of Napoleon to conquer Russia and unite all of Europe under France

To protect France from English invaders Joan of Arc, through bold strength, leads her countrymen to victory. However, the English kidnap her, brand her a witch and burn her at the stake, a tragic ending to a brave life. Animated

Students will learn about how and why the French established New France and claimed most of present-day Canada. Discusses Giovanni da Verranzo, Jacque Cartier, Samuel de Champlain, Louis Joliet, Jaques Marquett, Rene-Robert Cavelier, and Sieur de La Salle

Traces the course of the Revolution - including the storming of the Bastille, the executions of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, and Robespierre's Reign of Terror - and the rise and fall of Napoleon. Napoleon's string of military victories, the Battle of Waterloo, and his exile to St. Helena are examined

In this powerful historical drama, acclaimed Polish director Andrzej Wajda creates a stirring portrayal of the political figures involved in the aftermath of the French Revolution. In French with English subtitles

Program 39: The Death of the Old Regime (30 min.). Program 40: The French Revolution (30 min.)

To Destiny: Recounts the story of Napoleon's extraordinary rise from the obscurity of his Corsican childhood to the victories in Italy that made him a hero to the French people and convinced him that he was destined to greatness. Discusses his relationship with Josephine Beauharnais. Mastering Luck: Charts Napoleon's ascent to absolute power, from the first consuls to the emperor of France. Describes his achievements - from the Napoleonic Code and the Bank of France, to bridges, roads, and canals, as well as the tyrannical nature of his rule and the violent opposition of most of Europe

Summit Of Greatness: Witness Napoleon's conquest of most of Europe in a series of brilliant triumphs, including his legendary Battle of Austerlitz. To sustain his rule, he must continue to fight, but when he invades Spain, he has begun to reach too far. The End: Describes Napoleon's downfall. Exiled to Elba, he returns to France after just 10 months, only to be defeated for the last time at Waterloo. Napoleon spends his final days exiled on a island, where he writes his memoirs and reinvents his legend