Modern World History

Ms. Portman

THE TRIAL OF NAPOLEON BONAPARTE

The year is 1815 and Napoleon’s last 100 days as a general have ended on the fields of Waterloo.  The purpose of this trial is to judge the actions of Napoleon Bonaparte.  Was he a great leader and patriot, or was he a power-hungry dictator? What are we to do with this man? Our task is to examine his life and produce a verdict on the charge of "crimes against humanity," a charge later used against the Nazis after World War Two. 

The Judge:

• Introduce this case and the charges are against Napoleon
• Maintain order in the courtroom by making sure the proceedings go smoothly
• Maintain a non-biased approach to both sides
• Determine guilt or innocence and a sentence if found guilty
• Present verdict and why you have made your decision

The Prosecutors:

• (1) Opening Statement 
• (2) Questions the Witnesses
• (1,2,3) Cross-Examination
• (3) Closing Statement- which incorporates the weaknesses of the opposing side

The Defense:

• (1) Opening Statement 
• (2) Questions the Witnesses
• (1,2,3) Cross-Examination
• (3) Closing Statement- which incorporates the weaknesses of the opposing side

The Witnesses for the Prosecution:

• Work as a team with the other witnesses and lawyers
• You each need to create your own identity and write 5 questions that you want the lawyer to ask you
• Be prepared for cross-examination

The Witnesses for the Defense:

• Work as a team with the other witnesses and lawyers
• You each need to create your own identity and write 5 questions that you want the lawyer to ask you
• Be prepared for cross-examination

The Trial Of Napoleon Bonaparte

A) Opening the Trial:

   1. The entry of the Judge.

   2. The introduction of the lawyers.

   3. The reading of the charge against the accused.

B) The Case for the Prosecution:

   1. The opening statement of the prosecution lawyers. (3-5 minutes)

   2. The examination of the prosecution witnesses, with cross-examination. 

C) The Case for the Defense:

   1. The opening statement of the defense lawyers. (3-5 minutes)

   2. The examination of the defense witnesses, with cross-examination.

D) Summations by Counsel:

   1. Defense Lawyers.  (3-5 minutes)

   2. Prosecution Lawyers. (3-5 minutes)

F) The Verdict:

• The decision of the Judge

• Explanation for the verdict and possible sentencing

Your grade will be based on how well you perform you duties in this trial.  I will be taking notes during the trial, and you will receive a score out of 30 points.