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Post Napoleon France
Home » France » France - History and Overview » Post Napoleon FrancePosted by Your Guide on May 17, 2006 4:55 PM
In 1814 the Congress of Vienna redefined the map of Europe, approximating the boundaries that had existed in 1792. The Bourbon monarchy was reestablished (Louis XVIII took the throne), a fact that didn’t sit well with those who had fought for freedom from the monarchy. In 1830 Louis XVIII was removed from power after more uprisings. Louis-Philippe was elected king. He reigned for 18 years, most of which were prosperous and peaceful until a revolution in 1848 forced him out of office.
That year, Napoléon I's nephew, Napoléon III, was elected president. He declared himself emperor in 1851, and initiated a fairly repressive government. Despite the odds, it was successful, but only because of the growth the country would experience under his rule. Steel production began, along with a railway system. Paris experienced radical decorative change as Baron Georges-Eugène Haussmann laid out the boulevard system that defines the city today.
But by 1866, the newly industrialized France was again discontent. In 1870, the Prussians defeated Napoléon III. They withdrew, but another revolt in 1873 ushered in a new elected President, Marshal MacMahon. France was once again at peace, and the country entered a productive season of prosperity. The Impressionists painted glorious works and the Eiffel tower was built for the Universal Exhibition of 1889.
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