Question

Why did Napoleon want a divorce from Josephine?

Answer 1

Answer: Napoleon began to create lists of eligible princesses. At dinner on 30 November 1809, he let Joséphine know that, in the interest of France, he must find a wife who could produce an heir. Joséphine agreed to the divorce so the Emperor could remarry in the hope of having an heir.

Explanation:

Answer 2

Answer: Napoleon was aware of the necessity to become part of European highest aristocracy and, of course, he though of founding a new royal dynasty. For that it was necessary to be involved with some of European royal families. In his case: Austrian Habsburgs. After divorcing Josephine de Beauharnais he married Marie-Louise, Austrian princess from the house of Habsburg, daughter of the Emperor Francis I.

Explanation: Napoleon did not have aristocratic family. He was born into quite humble and poor family. His life, his political success as an individual became example for many common people. Nevertheless, in certain point of his life, he proclaimed himself an Emperor (1804) and like that became a part of European royal circles and wanted to be accepted by them. The best way in such a situation was to marry a princess and to have children with her.