What are the characteristics of the consular regime?

From the coup of 18 Brumaire (November 9, 1799) to the proclamation of the French Empire (May 18, 1804), Napoleon led the republic as first consul. The Consulate regime is characterized by the fact that while declaring loyalty to republican principles, France gradually moved towards a monarchical state. Departments were replaced by prefectures. Many influential émigrés returned, while radical Republicans were sent into exile. Large-scale repressions were carried out against the press and Bonaparte’s rivals. A lush courtyard began to form.