Louis Philippe Entering Paris |
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Entry of Louis Philippe into Paris, July 30, 1830. Engraved from a contemporary painting by Vernet. The street fighters had thrown up barricades made of paving blocks, as was customary in Parisian riots. Click here to enlarge this image.
The entry of Louis Philippe into Paris, France, on July 30, 1830, marked a pivotal moment in French history, signaling the end of the Bourbon Restoration and the beginning of the July Monarchy. This event occurred during the July Revolution of 1830, also known as the Three Glorious Days (Les Trois Glorieuses), which spanned from July 27 to July 29, 1830. The revolution was sparked by widespread discontent with King Charles X's reactionary policies, including the dissolution of the Chamber of Deputies and the imposition of the July Ordinances, which severely restricted civil liberties and the press. As the revolution gained momentum, Charles X abdicated the throne in favor of his grandson, the Duke of Bordeaux. However, the political climate demanded a more moderate and popular figure. The choice fell on Louis Philippe, Duke of Orléans, who had a reputation as a liberal and was a member of the more progressive Orléans branch of the Bourbon family. On July 30, 1830, Louis Philippe made his way to Paris amidst a backdrop of jubilant crowds and revolutionary fervor. His entry into the capital was symbolic of a new era, as he was welcomed by the people and the National Guard, who saw him as a champion of constitutional monarchy and the rights of citizens. Louis Philippe accepted the tricolor flag, a symbol of the revolution, and demonstrated his commitment to liberal principles by pledging to uphold the Charter of 1814 with modifications that favored greater freedoms. Louis Philippe's accession to the throne as "King of the French" rather than "King of France" underscored his connection to the people and his intention to rule as a constitutional monarch. His reign, known as the July Monarchy, lasted until 1848 and was characterized by efforts to balance conservative and liberal forces within the country. The entry of Louis Philippe into Paris on July 30, 1830, thus marked a significant transition in French history, highlighting the power of popular movements and setting the stage for a more liberal and constitutional governance, even though his reign would eventually end with another revolution. |
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