1769-1821

French general who had an active interest in science. He proposed and led a military expedition to Egypt in 1798 that included scientists and scholars. Much scientific and scholarly research was conducted in Egypt, including the discovery of the Rosetta Stone (1799), which later proved key to deciphering hieroglyphics. During his 14-year reign as emperor (1800-1814) Napoleon encouraged science-based industries and fundamental research through substantial prizes and commissions.