When Killing Becomes Commonplace After destroying 56 small boats in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific Ocean, the Trump administration’s murderous attacks have become commonplace but remain illegal and evil, says Andrew P. Napolitano.

Napoleon Bonaparte was known for his unusually strict personal hygiene habits, which were rare for his era. He reportedly shaved daily, cleaned his teeth, took long baths, changed his clothes frequently, and covered himself in cologne scented with rosemary and citrus. His dedication to grooming reflected his obsession with appearance and personal image. Napoleon Bonaparte’s bathing routine was far more than a simple act of cleanliness. He often spent long periods in the bath, using the time to read reports, dictate letters, and discuss military or political matters with his aides. For Napoleon, the bath became a private workspace where he could think and manage the demands of leadership. His attendants maintained an extensive collection of grooming supplies, including razors, brushes, toothpicks, soaps, perfumes, and fresh linens. Even while on military campaigns, Napoleon expected these items to remain available. He also paid close attention to his appearance, frequently changing clothes after journeys, ceremonies, and inspections. Napoleon’s preference for eau de cologne reflected changing attitudes toward hygiene and personal care among Europe’s upper classes. While fragrances were still used to mask odors, lighter and fresher scents became associated with refinement. Napoleon favored invigorating aromas like rosemary and citrus, reinforcing the image he wanted to project: disciplined, energetic, and always prepared. His servants would even pour cologne over his head and shoulders after bathing, using it almost like a scented rinse.

Napoleon Bonaparte seized power in France during the Coup of 18 Brumaire in November 1799, ending the unstable Directory and becoming First Consul. With France facing major challenges in Europe and ambitious colonial plans in the Caribbean and Louisiana, Napoleon quickly decided that the undeclared naval conflict with the United States was no longer worth the effort. Rather than continue the Quasi-War, he pursued negotiations that led to the Convention of 1800, restoring peaceful relations between France and the United States. The decision allowed Napoleon to redirect French attention toward Europe while giving the young United States time to strengthen its navy and avoid a costly full-scale war with one of the world’s most powerful nations. Although tensions had pushed the two countries to the brink, diplomacy ultimately prevailed, marking one of the first major foreign policy successes of the early American republic. Napoleon’s decision to deprioritize the conflict with the United States had lasting consequences for both nations. It ended the Quasi-War before it could grow into a larger conflict, preserved American independence from European power struggles, and allowed the United States to continue developing its navy and expanding its economy. For France, ending hostilities freed resources for campaigns in Europe and set the stage for broader strategic plans in North America, including the events that eventually led to the Louisiana Purchase. The episode demonstrated how shifting priorities by a single leader could reshape international relations and alter the course of history for two emerging powers. #archaeohistories#