Documents on the Second French Empire, 1852-1870

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The narrative centers on Louis-Napoléon Bonaparte's rise to power in 1851 and his vision to modernize France through infrastructure and urban renewal. Despite facing opposition from various factions, he sought to maintain control over foreign and defense policies. His ambition ultimately led to his downfall in 1870, when a disastrous military defeat marked the end of his empire and significantly altered the European power landscape. The book explores themes of ambition, governance, and the consequences of political decisions.