Editing History of France (section)

==== Napoleonic Code ====
Of permanent importance was the [[Napoleonic Code]] created by eminent jurists under Napoleon's supervision. Praised for its <!--Gallic(??)--> clarity, it spread rapidly throughout Europe and the world in general, and marked the end of feudalism and the liberation of serfs where it took effect.{{Sfnp|Grab|2003}} The Code recognized the principles of civil liberty, equality before the law, and the secular character of the state. It discarded the old right of primogeniture (where only the eldest son inherited) and required that inheritances be divided equally among all the children. The court system was standardized; all judges were appointed by the national government in Paris.{{Sfnp|Goubert|1988|loc=Chapter 14}}