August 19th, 1821. It was a day of celebration of the French Empire as it was the date of the birthday of the Emperor of France, Napoleon Bonaparte. It was a national holiday, and therefore schools were closed. People from all walks of life took to the streets, which were adorned with banners and flags, the tricolor of blue, white, and red fluttering proudly in the summer breeze. The sounds of military bands filled the air, playing rousing anthems that stirred the soul and kindled a fierce pride in the hearts of the citizens.
Throughout the cities and towns, parades marched with soldiers in crisp uniforms, their boots thumping in unison on the cobblestone streets. The clinking of their sabers and the rhythm of the drummers provided a cadence to the festivities. Onlookers cheered and waved from balconies draped in lush garlands, their faces bright with joy for the glory of the Empire and their beloved leader.
