King Louis Philippe (France) Autographs, Memorabilia & Collectibles

King Louis Philippe (1773-1850), had ascended to the throne as a result of the July Revolution of 1830, an outpouring of public opposition to King Charles X (1757-1836). Known as the "Citizen King" for his menial habits and public visibility, Louis Philippe was a direct descendent of Philippe d' Orleans (1640-1701), the youngest son of King Louis XIII (1601-1643). Being far removed from the crown, he was raised more harshly than a well-to-do commoner. Louis was 57 years old when liberals and political allies opposed to Charles brought him to power as a revolutionary monarch through a political coup. Once named King, however, he chose a middle course between the monarchists and the Bonapartists. In spite of his attempt at a more democratic nation, numerous rebellions and attempted assassinations caused Louis Philippe to become more guarded of his person and stricter with his people. These measures were necessary due to factors beyond the King's control; blights of drought and disease in the 1840s led to famine and economic hardships for which the French, reverting to their old ways, blamed the noblemen and monarchy. A new age of revolutionaries evolved and challenged the crown. Louis Philippe believed in the democratic doctrine; therefore, in 1848, he chose to abdicate. Still, he was forced to flee to England for sanctuary, and lived there for the remainder of his life.