Which legal code forbade birth privileges and promoted freedom of religion and meritocracy in government service?

• A. Civil Code
• B. Statute of Liberty
• C. Constitutional Code
• D. Napoleonic Code

Answer: (D)

The Napoleonic Code embodies the idea of equal treatment under the law and reforms that curtailed hereditary privilege while fostering religious tolerance and merit in public service. It abolished birth-based privileges, establishing legal equality for all male citizens and ending feudal advantages tied to nobility. It also guaranteed freedom of religion within a framework that allowed individual worship and reduced church political power. At the same time, public offices were to be filled based on ability and qualification rather than birth, promoting meritocracy in government service. These reforms are why this code is the correct reference for the question.