France after the fall of Napoleon

Summary

This video explores the political landscape of France from 1814 to 1848, highlighting the return of the Bourbon monarchy after Napoleon's defeat. Following the chaotic end of the French Revolution, King Louis XVIII attempted to stabilize the nation through a constitutional monarchy, but reactionary policies led to unrest. His successor, Charles X, faced backlash and was overthrown during the July Revolution, leading to Louis-Philippe's initial popularity that waned due to economic struggles. The rise of Napoleon III marked a shift toward stability, yet political divisions persisted, culminating in the establishment of the Third Republic, illustrating the complexities of France's political evolution.

Takeaways

• 👑 The French government transitioned from monarchy to a constitutional monarchy after Napoleon's defeat in 1814, marking the beginning of the Bourbon restoration.
• 🛡️ King Louis XVIII, brother of Louis XVI, returned to the throne, but his reign faced challenges from reactionary politicians opposed to revolutionary ideals.
• ⚔️ Napoleon's brief return in 1815, known as the 'Hundred Days,' ended with his defeat at the Battle of Waterloo, leading to his exile to St. Helena.
• 📜 The Bourbon dynasty aimed to restore stability in France, influenced by the desires of both foreign powers and many French citizens post-Napoleonic Wars.
• 📉 Louis XVIII's reign was marked by political instability and the eventual rise of reactionary forces, culminating in his death in 1824.
• 👑 Charles X succeeded Louis XVIII but was overthrown during the July Revolution of 1830 due to his conservative and divine right beliefs.
• 🗳️ Louis Philippe was elected as king following Charles X's abdication, initially gaining popularity before becoming viewed as autocratic.
• 💰 Economic downturns in the late 1840s led to social unrest among the lower classes and industrial workers in France.
• 🌍 The revolutionary wave of 1848 across Europe influenced the rise of new leadership, particularly Napoleon III, who appealed to the common people's desire for stability.
• 🏛️ After the fall of Napoleon III, France established the Third Republic, which aimed to be a more stable government amidst a divided political landscape.

Q & A

What major event marked the end of the French Revolution?

The defeat of Napoleon in 1814 marked the end of the French Revolution, leading to the return of the monarchy.

Who became the king after Napoleon's defeat in 1814?

Louis XVIII, the brother of Louis XVI, became king after Napoleon's defeat.

What was the 'Hundred Days' period?

The 'Hundred Days' refers to Napoleon's return from exile in Elba and his brief restoration of power before being defeated at Waterloo.

What coalition defeated Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo?

A coalition of nations, including Prussia and Britain, defeated Napoleon at the Battle of Waterloo.

Why did the French return to a monarchy after the Revolution?

The victorious powers and many French people sought stability after the Napoleonic Wars, believing a return to Bourbon rule would provide it.

How did Louis XVIII attempt to promote stability during his reign?

Louis XVIII established a constitutional monarchy to promote stability, though it was largely dominated by royalists.

What led to the dissatisfaction with King Charles X?

Charles X's strong belief in divine right and support for conservative backlash against revolutionary ideals led to public dissatisfaction.

Who succeeded Charles X, and how was he viewed by the people?

Louis-Philippe succeeded Charles X and was initially popular, but over time became perceived as autocratic.

What economic conditions contributed to the revolutions of 1848 in France?

An economic downturn in the late 1840s upset the lower class, particularly industrial workers, leading to revolts.

Who rose to power after the revolutions of 1848, and what was his relation to Napoleon?

Napoleon III, the nephew of Napoleon Bonaparte, rose to power after the revolutions, claiming legitimacy through his uncle's lineage.

What governmental structure was established in France after Napoleon III's overthrow?

After Napoleon III's overthrow, France established the Third Republic, which became its actual government despite initial transitional status.