The French Second Empire

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Focusing on the political ascent of Louis-Napoleon Bonaparte, the book delves into his election as President and subsequent establishment of the Second Empire through a coup d'état. It explores the exercise of power under his regime and the shift towards a more liberal government. However, this transition is interrupted by a disastrous war against Prussia, leading to the regime's collapse. Thoroughly researched, the work enhances understanding of a critical period in French history following the 1848 revolution and the mid-century crisis.