Short answers, pulled from the story.
The official count declared that three million six hundred fifty-three thousand six hundred votes supported the measure while only eight thousand three hundred seventy-four votes opposed it. These figures represented ninety-nine point seven seven percent approval and zero point two three percent rejection.
The 10th of May 1802 marked a pivotal moment in French history when citizens voted on whether Napoleon Bonaparte should serve as First Consul for life. This vote followed the establishment of the Consulate in 1800.
No secret ballot existed during this election process so voters had to write their names next to their choices in public registers. Police harassment became a real threat for those who voted no and the lack of privacy turned voting into an act of public declaration rather than private choice.
Turnout increased by over eight percentage points compared to the 1800 referendum because fear of retribution kept many silent even when they disagreed with the proposal. The regime relied on social pressure to ensure favorable results while critics argue the increase reflected fear rather than genuine enthusiasm.
The referendum legally transformed Napoleon's position into a lifetime appointment that allowed him to rule without term limits or checks on his authority. The constitution granted him control over legislation and foreign policy while shifting his role from executive leader to de facto monarch.