In 1799, napoleon overthrew the directory and had himself named first consul. which statement explains how he was able to do that? his promise to sign peace treaties with all of france’s enemies appealed to a war-weary public. his alliance with great britain gave him power among the traditional sectors of french society. his victories on the battlefield made him appealing to people looking for a strong leader to head the country. his promise to do away with all taxes made him popular with the poor and destitute in france.