The famous French military leader who became Emperor of France is Napoleon Bonaparte. Rising through the ranks during the French Revolution, he established himself as a military genius and led numerous successful campaigns across Europe. In 1804, he crowned himself Emperor, implementing significant reforms in government, law, and education, known as the Napoleonic Code. His ambitious conquests expanded French territory but ultimately led to his downfall after the disastrous invasion of Russia in 1812. Napoleon's legacy includes his contributions to modern statecraft, military strategy, and the legal system, leaving an indelible mark on European history.