In the summer of 1797, following the defeat of the Venetian Republic by Napoleon Bonaparte's forces, French troops landed in Corfu, marking the beginning of French administration in the Ionian Islands. This strategic move was part of France's broader campaign in southern Europe during the Revolutionary Wars. The Ionian Islands, located in the northern part of the Adriatic Sea, were a vital maritime route and had significant trade importance, making them a valuable asset for the French expansionist agenda. With the disbanding of the Venetian rule, which had held sway over the islands for centuries, the French sought to replace the old administrative structures with a system modeled after their own, reflecting Enlightenment principles and ideas of modern governance. French officers quickly moved to establish authority, engaging local leaders and integrating them into the new political landscape while also introducing reforms in law, education, and civil administration. By fostering alliances with local populations, the French aimed to stabilize their control and promote a sense of loyalty among the inhabitants. The French presence in the Ionian Islands set the stage for a period of socio-political change that would influence the future trajectory of the region for years to come.