Evaluate the reasons for the 1848 Revolution in France.

Candidates will make an appraisal of the reasons for the 1848 Revolution in France by weighing up the weaknesses of Louis Philippe’s monarchy and the relative strength of the opposition to his regime. They may argue that it was primarily the weakness of the regime rather than the strength and unity of opposition that led to the Revolution. Economic problems such as rising food prices and unemployment caused opposition, especially in Paris. There was middle class opposition to the restricted franchise and reformers were active in the Banquet Movement. The regime was also considered to be repressive by the working class. Some candidates may point out that the working class wanted a republic whereas the middle class wanted moderate reform. As such, opposition was not entirely unified. A weak foreign policy also undermined support for the monarchy. In the short term, Louis Philippe could not rely on the National Guard and abdicated due to his fear of the Paris mob.