FRANCE

Revolution Again

France was the first country to erupt in revolution in 1848. The French people were unhappy with King Louis-Philippe, who was known as the “Citizen King.” At first, he had supported the people, but over time, he became less interested in helping ordinary citizens. Poor harvests, high prices, and unemployment made the situation worse.

In February 1848, angry crowds filled the streets of Paris demanding change. After clashes with the army, the king gave up his throne and fled to England. A new government was formed: the Second Republic. For the first time, France had elections based on universal male suffrage, meaning all men could vote, not just the rich.

However, the new republic faced deep divisions. Some wanted more radical social changes, while others wanted stability. By 1851, Louis-Napoleon Bonaparte (Napoleon’s nephew) used his popularity to seize power and later declared himself Emperor Napoleon III, ending the republic.