This is an educational resource based on the Wikipedia article concerning the July Revolution of 1830. Explore the original source. (opens in new tab)

The July Revolution of 1830

An analytical exploration of the 'Trois Glorieuses' and its profound impact on the Bourbon Restoration.

Understand the Revolution 👇 Key Events 🗓️

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!


When you are ready...
🎮 Play the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge Game🎮

Revolutionary Overview

A Second French Revolution

The July Revolution, also known as the Second French Revolution or the Trois Glorieuses ("Three Glorious Days"), marked a significant upheaval in France. It led to the deposition of King Charles X, the Bourbon monarch, and the ascension of his cousin, Louis Philippe, Duke of Orléans.

Shift in Governance

This pivotal event restored a constitutional monarchy, transitioning power from the House of Bourbon to its cadet branch, the House of Orléans. It fundamentally replaced the principle of hereditary right with that of popular sovereignty, ushering in the July Monarchy.

Wider European Impact

The revolution's success reverberated across Europe, inspiring subsequent uprisings in Belgium and Poland, and contributing to broader movements for political change throughout the continent.

Context: The Bourbon Restoration

Charles X's Reign

Following Napoleon's defeat, the Bourbon monarchy was restored with Louis XVIII, who was succeeded by his more reactionary brother, Charles X, in 1824. Charles X's reign was marked by policies perceived as favoring the aristocracy and the Catholic Church, alienating segments of the populace and political elite.

Charter of 1814 and Growing Discontent

The Charter of 1814, a constitutional document, guaranteed certain liberties but was increasingly seen as insufficient by liberal and republican factions. Measures such as the Anti-Sacrilege Act and financial indemnities for émigré nobles fueled public resentment and distrust towards the crown.

  • The imposition of the death penalty for desecrating the Eucharist was viewed as a concession to the Catholic Church, undermining religious equality.
  • Financial indemnities for property confiscated during the Revolution and Empire were controversial, perceived by some as opportunistic and potentially aimed at shaming political opponents.

Press and Public Opinion

The government's attempts to tighten press censorship were met with strong opposition from journalists and the public. Newspapers like Le National became vocal critics, framing the government's actions as a violation of the Charter and a precursor to revolution.

The Three Glorious Days

Monday, 26 July 1830

The promulgation of the July Ordinances—dissolving the Chamber of Deputies, suspending press freedom, and altering electoral laws—ignited widespread protest. Journalists defied the censorship, and clashes began between demonstrators and royal troops, marking the start of the uprising.

The day began with the publication of the ordinances, leading to business closures and factory shutdowns. Journalists met to protest, vowing to continue publication. Police raids on printing presses escalated tensions, drawing angry crowds. Initial clashes resulted in civilian casualties, fueling cries against the monarchy and aristocracy.

Tuesday, 27 July 1830

Fighting intensified across Paris. Barricades were erected, and revolutionary forces gained control of key areas. Despite orders to repress the uprising, royal troops faced disorganization and wavering loyalty, while the Bourbon opposition sought mediation.

The city became a battleground. Royal troops were deployed to strategic locations, but faced insufficient numbers and provisions. The revolutionaries, increasingly organized and armed, captured significant buildings like the Tuileries Palace and the Louvre. The effectiveness of the royal response was hampered by indecision and a lack of decisive action from King Charles X.

Wednesday, 28 July 1830

The revolutionaries achieved decisive control, capturing the Hôtel de Ville. The royal army's position collapsed, with many troops deserting. The tricolor flag became a prominent symbol of the revolution, flying over captured government buildings.

The capture of the Hôtel de Ville marked a turning point. Despite pockets of fighting, the revolutionary momentum was undeniable. The provisional government began to form, signaling the effective end of Charles X's rule. Notably, looting was minimal, with revolutionary crowds often protecting cultural sites.

The Outcome: A New Monarchy

Abdication and Exile

On August 2, Charles X and his son, the Dauphin, formally abdicated their claims to the throne. They subsequently departed for Great Britain, ending the direct line of Bourbon rule.

Louis Philippe Ascends

Instead of recognizing Charles X's intended successor, the Duke of Bordeaux (Henry V), the provisional government installed Louis Philippe, Duke of Orléans, as the new King of the French. This established the July Monarchy, a constitutional monarchy.

Constitutional Shift

The July Monarchy represented a significant shift, emphasizing popular sovereignty over hereditary right. Supporters of the exiled Bourbons became known as Legitimists, while adherents of Louis Philippe were called Orléanists.

Wider Consequences

Belgian Independence

The success of the July Revolution directly inspired the Belgian Revolution, which began in August 1830. This led to the secession of the Southern Netherlands from the United Kingdom of the Netherlands and the establishment of the independent Kingdom of Belgium.

Polish Uprising

The revolution also emboldened Polish nationalists, contributing to the outbreak of the November Uprising against Russian rule in Congress Poland. Though ultimately suppressed, it demonstrated the revolutionary spirit ignited by events in France.

Italian and Other Movements

Similar revolutionary sentiments were stirred in various Italian states and other parts of Europe, highlighting the interconnectedness of political movements during this period.

Teacher's Corner

Edit and Print this course in the Wiki2Web Teacher Studio

Edit and Print Materials from this study in the wiki2web studio
Click here to open the "July Revolution" Wiki2Web Studio curriculum kit

Use the free Wiki2web Studio to generate printable flashcards, worksheets, exams, and export your materials as a web page or an interactive game.

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Are you ready for the Wiki2Web Clarity Challenge?

Learn about july_revolution while playing the wiki2web Clarity Challenge game.
Unlock the mystery image and prove your knowledge by earning trophies. This simple game is addictively fun and is a great way to learn!

Play now

References

References

A full list of references for this article are available at the July Revolution Wikipedia page

Feedback & Support

To report an issue with this page, or to find out ways to support the mission, please click here.

Academic Disclaimer

Important Considerations

This content has been generated by an AI model for educational purposes, drawing exclusively from the provided source material. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and clarity, it is essential for students to consult primary sources and scholarly works for comprehensive understanding.

This is not a substitute for professional historical analysis. The information presented should be critically evaluated, and readers are encouraged to engage with peer-reviewed literature and expert interpretations to deepen their knowledge of the July Revolution and its complex historical context.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any interpretations or actions taken based on the information provided herein.