February Revolution: Guizot resigns, Paris shootings, Louis-Philippe abdicates, Second Republic proclaimed

Background. Tensions arose from economic deterioration in 1847 and Guizot's conservative policies. Reformists held 'banquets' to demand electoral reform, but the government banned these political meetings in January 1848. This prohibition catalyzed the revolution, as opposition groups bypassed the ban by disguising debate as dinner speeches, leading to widespread civil unrest in Paris.

Guizot's Resignation. On 23 February 1848, King Louis-Philippe summoned Guizot, expressing doubt about retaining him as prime minister due to the situation in Paris. Guizot's cabinet resigned that afternoon, abandoned by the petite bourgeoisie. This resignation occurred amidst the ban on political meetings, which had previously been a key source of opposition activity.

Abdication and Republic. On 24 February 1848, Louis-Philippe abdicated in favor of his grandson. The events led to the end of the Orleans Monarchy and the creation of the Second Republic. Radical and liberal factions convened the new republic, marking the collapse of the July Monarchy and the start of a new political era in France.