The storied history of French monarchy spans an impressive timeframe, beginning with the establishment of the Kingdom of the West Franks in 843 and extending, with various interruptions, until the fall of the Second French Empire in 1870. Over this period of 1027 years, France was led by a total of 50 monarchs. This includes 45 kings who reigned from Charles the Bald in 843 to Louis XVI in 1792, supplemented by three additional kings and two emperors who ascended to power after the tumultuous French Revolution.

The Genesis of French Kingship: From Franks to France

While classical French historiography often looks to Clovis I, who reigned from 481 to 511, as the foundational "first king of France" in its embryonic stages, the kingdom as we understand it didn't technically emerge until the formation of West Francia. This pivotal moment arrived in August 843 with the Treaty of Verdun, an agreement that saw the vast Frankish realm divided into three distinct kingdoms. Among these, Middle Francia proved to be short-lived, while the other two, West Francia and East Francia, eventually evolved into what we recognize today as France and Germany, respectively. By this time, the eastern and western territories of the land had already begun to cultivate their own unique languages and cultural identities, setting the stage for their future divergence.

Dynastic Succession and Evolving Titles

In its initial centuries, the newly formed kingdom was primarily guided by two powerful dynasties: the Carolingians and the Robertians. These families alternated rule from 843 until 987, a period that concluded with the ascension of Hugh Capet. His taking of the throne marked the genesis of the enduring Capetian dynasty, a lineage that would shape France for centuries. For a significant period, until the late twelfth century, the reigning monarchs held the title "King of the Franks." It was Philip II, who ruled from 1180 to 1223, who became the first to formally adopt the more familiar and enduring title of "King of France." The Capetian dynasty, in its various branches, maintained a continuous hold on the throne from 987 to 1792, and then again from 1814 to 1848. However, after 1328, the ruling branches are typically identified by specific names: the Valois, who governed until 1589; the Bourbon, reigning from 1589 until 1792 and again from 1814 until 1830; and finally, the Orléans, who held power from 1830 until 1848.

"King of the French" and Imperial Ambitions

During two distinct periods in French history, the style of "King of the French" was adopted, a notable departure from "King of France." This title was in effect when the French Constitution of 1791 was operational (1791–92), and again after the July Revolution in 1830. This constitutional innovation heralded what was known as popular monarchy, a system that explicitly linked the monarch's title to the French people rather than to the mere possession of French territory. The 19th century also witnessed periods of imperial rule under the House of Bonaparte, whose "emperors of the French" presided over the nation between 1804 and 1814, briefly in 1815, and once more from 1852 until 1870.

England's Persistent, Yet Nominal, Claim

From the 14th century right up until 1801, the English (and subsequently British) monarch laid claim to the French throne. However, this assertion was largely nominal, a symbolic gesture with little practical effect, except for a brief but impactful period during the Hundred Years' War. During this conflict, Henry VI of England managed to assert control over a significant portion of Northern France, including its capital, Paris. By 1453, however, the English presence had been largely expelled from French lands, and Henry's claim has since been universally regarded as illegitimate by French historiography, which consequently does not include him among its recognized kings.

Louis Philippe I: The Citizen King's Tumultuous Reign

Louis Philippe I (October 6, 1773 – August 26, 1850) holds a unique place in French history as the King of the French from 1830 to 1848, making him the last king and the penultimate monarch to rule France.

Early Life, Revolutionary Service, and Exile

Born as Louis Philippe, Duke of Chartres, his early years saw him distinguish himself in military command during the Revolutionary Wars. Yet, his commitment to the Republic wavered dramatically following its decision to execute King Louis XVI. Breaking ties with the revolutionary government, he fled to Switzerland in 1793 after being implicated in a plot aimed at restoring the French monarchy. Tragically, his father, Louis Philippe II, Duke of Orléans (famously known as Philippe Égalité), fell under suspicion by the revolutionaries and was executed. Louis Philippe himself endured a protracted 21-year exile, a period that finally concluded with the Bourbon Restoration.

The July Monarchy and Conservative Rule

His return to France was followed by another wave of political upheaval. In 1830, after his fifth cousin, Charles X, was compelled to abdicate by the July Revolution, Louis Philippe was proclaimed king. His reign, often referred to as the July Monarchy, was characterized by the dominant influence of wealthy industrialists and bankers. Throughout his time on the throne, particularly from 1840 to 1848, he pursued largely conservative policies, heavily swayed by the counsel of the French statesman François Guizot. Beyond domestic affairs, Louis Philippe actively fostered friendship with Britain and championed colonial expansion, most notably initiating the French conquest of Algeria, a significant and controversial undertaking.

Decline, Abdication, and Legacy

Despite his efforts, Louis Philippe's popularity began to wane as economic conditions across France deteriorated sharply in 1847. This growing discontent culminated in the outbreak of the French Revolution of 1848, an uprising that ultimately forced him to abdicate his throne. He spent the remainder of his life in exile in the United Kingdom, observing from afar the continued political shifts of his homeland. His supporters, who championed his constitutionalist approach, became known as Orléanists. This faction stood in contrast to the Legitimists, who advocated for the main line of the House of Bourbon, and the Bonapartists, who maintained their allegiance to the Bonaparte family, notably Napoleon I and Napoleon III.

Frequently Asked Questions about French Monarchy

Who were the monarchs of France?

The monarchs of France comprised a long line of kings and emperors, primarily from the Carolingian, Robertian, and various branches of the Capetian dynasty (Valois, Bourbon, Orléans), as well as the House of Bonaparte. They ruled from 843 to 1870, with interruptions.

When did the French monarchy begin and end?

The continuous line of monarchs officially began with the establishment of the Kingdom of the West Franks in 843 and effectively ended with the fall of the Second French Empire in 1870. The last king was Louis Philippe I (1830-1848), and the last monarch was Emperor Napoleon III (1852-1870).

What was the "King of the French" title?

The title "King of the French" was a constitutional innovation indicating a "popular monarchy," linking the monarch's authority to the French people rather than merely to the possession of French territory. It was used during the period of the 1791 Constitution (1791-92) and again after the July Revolution (1830-1848).

Which major dynasties ruled France?

Key dynasties include the early Carolingians and Robertians, followed by the long-reigning Capetians and their branches: the Valois, the Bourbon, and the Orléans. The House of Bonaparte also provided emperors during the 19th century.

Who was Louis Philippe I?

Louis Philippe I was the "King of the French" from 1830 to 1848, known as the "Citizen King" and ruler during the July Monarchy. He was the last king of France, forced to abdicate during the French Revolution of 1848.