3. Napoleon Bonaparte, born August 15, 1769, under the sign of Leo
People born under the sign of Leo – the Lion – are said to be passionate, take charge, ambitious, regal in nature, prone to celebrate their accomplishments, and natural leaders. Those traits were certainly apparent in the personality of Napoleon Bonaparte, who quite literally seized the crown of Emperor of the French with his own hands. The phrase “in the spotlight” did not exist in Napoleon’s day, but he made sure that it is always shown upon him in the figurative sense. That he was governed by fierce passions is evident in his letters to Josephine, and to his several mistresses. He elevated his brothers to thrones in Europe, though he ruled through them, rather than allowing them to rule themselves.
Napoleon chafed in exile on the island of Elba, and returned to reclaim the throne of France after nine months. His march from the coast to Paris became a triumphal procession after the Emperor challenged troops sent to stop him to kill him. It was a grandiose gesture in which he appealed directly to the men to recall their past triumphs under him. Throughout his military career, his leadership skills were prominently displayed, as was his seemingly unending ambition. Even in his final exile on St. Helena he occupied himself with military affairs, writing a book about the campaigns of Julius Caesar. The characteristics ascribed to those born under Leo were clearly evident in Napoleon’s personality and life.