For most Americans, Napoleon Bonaparte's dealings with the United States began in 1800 when he acquired the Louisiana territory from Spain, and then while depressed about the Haitian Revolution, turned around and sold it to the US for $15 million, or about three cents an acre, in 1803. It was a huge acquisition, but the only part the Spanish or the French really controlled was New Orleans, with the rest being Indian country.
Whichever country controlled New Orleans, it was filled with Napoleon fans. And as the French emperor went on to bigger battles in Europe, he retained the never ending loyalty of New Orleans residents. After Elba, after Waterloo, Napoleon considered returning to New Orleans for his retirement. His brother had already emigrated to America, and Napoleon confided in others that moving to the U.S. would bring him the dignity he deserved. In fact, he was trying to arrange his own passage to America when he was captured by the British and sent to St. Helena in 1815. Read about Napoleon's retirement plans, and the city that wanted him, at BBC Travel. -via Messy Nessy Chic
(Image credit: Infrogmation)