Question

Which one of the following was not included in the Napoleonic code of 1804?

• A. Privilege based on birth
• B. Abolished the feudal system
• C. Right to property
• D. Equality before law

Hint:

Remember that the Napoleonic Code was a major advancement in the fight for legal equality, property rights, and the abolition of feudalism. It shaped the legal systems of many countries that followed.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The Napoleonic Code, formally known as the \textit{Code Civil des Français}, was established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 180
4. It is one of the most influential legal documents in modern legal history, serving as a model for civil law codes in many countries. It was designed to replace the patchwork of local laws and customs with a unified set of laws that were consistent across France. Some of the core principles of the Napoleonic Code include:

1. Abolition of Feudalism:
The Napoleonic Code abolished feudal privileges, meaning that the aristocracy could no longer hold power simply based on birth or titles. The feudal system, which had granted privileges to the nobility, was dismantled to create a system based on legal equality.
2. Equality Before the Law:
One of the major accomplishments of the Napoleonic Code was the principle of \textit{égalité devant la loi} (equality before the law). It ensured that all citizens were treated equally, irrespective of their social or economic status. This principle abolished any special legal privileges for the nobility or clergy.
3. Right to Property:
The Napoleonic Code recognized and protected the right to property. It introduced a legal framework that guaranteed individuals the ability to own and transfer property without interference from the state or others. However, there was one major thing that the Napoleonic Code did not include:
- Privilege Based on Birth:
The Napoleonic Code specifically rejected the idea of granting privileges based on birth. It established that all men were equal in the eyes of the law, and thus aristocratic privileges or rights based solely on one’s birth or noble lineage were abolished. This was in stark contrast to previous systems, particularly under the monarchy, where privileges were granted based on noble birth. Thus, the Solution is clear:
Privilege based on birth was not included in the Napoleonic Code, making option (A) the Correct Answer.