should our leaders be warriors?

It has often been claimed of modern government that it is formed of old men quick to send our young folk into battles and is a shadow of the original purpose of national leaders - to be warriors in the true sense of leadership.

Although many contenders have tried to emulate his incredible exploits, Napoleon Bonaparte -- the little Coriscan soldier -- will go down in history as the last true warrior king because he actually led his troops into battle and was the most popular leader that France ever had.

Napoleon was at the right place at the right time and knew the right people -- the widow Josephine Beauharnais being his most influential ally in seeing his potential, encouraging him to shine and opening doors of opportunity for him.

The French Revolution of 1789 not only abolished the old Bourbon dynasty but also executed Louis XVI, Marie Antoinette and most others in their ambit (including the staunch republican, Alexander Beauharnais, husband of Josephine and son of the Governor of the French Caribbean colonies). Unable to set up a viable republic, the resultant mayhem springboarded Napoleon Bonaparte into prominence and, as a reward for her loyalty, Josephine's children by her former marriage were placed into positons which ultimately drew them into the family trees of the current Norwegian, Danish and Swedish royal families. See Royal Tree.

The Napoleonic Wars shook up Europe, ending the Holy Roman Empire, removing Papal control of Italy and Spanish control of Holland and establishing a new kingdom, including Belgium. In most places that Napoleon conquered or influenced, he replaced the old ruling families with his own family members or favorites -- such as Bernadotte -- creating a new 'royalty'.

By proclaiming himself emperor of the French, Napoleon was replacing an effete monarchy with the traditional warrior king. His subjects admired his ability to take charge and be at the front of battles, leading his troops, rather than holing up in a palace, counting his money, like the former French kings - or, indeed, our current leaders.