Encounters that Changed the World

Empress Josephine grew up in a well off, white Creole, sugar-plantation-owning family in Martinique. But a hurricane destroyed the plantation along with her family’s fortunes. In 1795 she met Napoleon Bonaparte and a legendary romance developed. Her hair was dark and silky, her voice was low and beautifully modulated. Napoleon need no encouragement and they married in 1796. Napoleon’s passionate infatuation with his new wife was evident for all to see. Read about the romance between Napoleo...