Martignac succeeds Villèle as Prime Minister of France

Political Context. Charles X's unpopularity in Paris became apparent in April 1827 during a National Guard review, where guardsmen chanted against Villèle. The Villèle cabinet faced increasing pressure from the liberal press, including the Journal des débats. Pamphlets evaded censorship laws, and liberal candidates received organizational assistance against pro-government officials in the November 1827 election, leading to the loss of Villèle's parliamentary majority.

Appointment of Martignac. After losing his parliamentary majority in November 1827, Charles X dismissed Villèle on 5 January 1828. He appointed Jean-Baptiste de Martignac, a man the King disliked and considered only provisional. Martignac was appointed minister of the interior on 4 January 1828, becoming the virtual head of the cabinet without bearing the title of president.

Martignac's Middle Course. Martignac tried to steer a middle course, appeasing liberals by loosening press controls, expelling Jesuits, modifying electoral registration, and restricting the formation of Catholic schools. However, he was exposed to attacks from both the extreme left and the extreme right. Charles X never believed in the policy Martignac represented, viewing him as a temporary measure.