The Corsica of the 1700s was a troubled and turbulent land. Every major power on the mainland to its north wanted control over its strategic location. With the constant threat of invasion and continually changing nations in power, it is no real surprise that this tiny Mediterranean island produced one of the greatest military minds in recorded history.

Born in 1769 in the small town of Ajaccio, Napoleon Bonapart was destined to rule. The first nine years of his life were spent here, and before his 10th birthday he had begun his military training in France. By his 20th birthday he would return and join the Jacobin revolutionary organization. He identified with their form of government, their commitment to the young and struggling republic, and their desire to build a stronger, more stable France.

In the early 1790s, he set his sights on grander things than island politics. He left his home again to fight for the Republic, and build his reputation. He was so successful against the country's many enemies that by 1804 he was crowned Emperor of France. Having attained ultimate power, Napoleon began to convert, or Gallicise the island of his birth. Corsicans lost all influence in governing their land, and in 1811 Napoleon moved the capital from Bastia to Ajaccio. The outraged citizens of Bastia lost their influence on island life. This decree solidified Ajaccio's future.

The Ajaccio of today is a thriving community. The days of conquest are behind them, but they remember fondly their most famous son (as do most Corsicans). Every summer the capital hosts a celebration of his life with historians, films and plays, period costumes, debates, exhibitions, games and competitions.