The War of French Succession was a war of succession in France that involved many different European powers. Napoleon IV's reign was supported by Spain, the Ottoman Empire, Switzerland, Florence, and the Papal States, while the reign of Charles-Louis Bonaparte was supported by Great Britain, Denmark, Sweden, Prussia, Austria, and Russia.
Causes[]
After the death of Napoleon II in 1850, the heir Napoleon III Bonaparte was only aged ten years. Charles-Louis Bonaparte declared that Napoleon III was to young to rule such a powerful and large nation, however Napoleon III's supporters claimed that he was the direct desendent of Napoleon I the Great, and must rule France.
Since Napoleon III was the true heir to the French throne, supporters of the original French regime (Spain, Switzerland, Florence, and the Papal States) assisted his French supporters.
Meanwhile, Charles-Louis Bonaparte stated that he would ally with Great Britain. Great Britain, Denmark, Sweden, Prussia, Austria, and Russia saw Charles-Louis Bonaparte as the more rational option that they hoped would bring peace to Europe after many years of many wars in Europe.
For the first time in half a century, the Ottoman Empire got involved. With Ottoman territory secured and stable, the Ottoman Empire went into war. With Russia and Austria supporting Charles-Louis, the Ottomans decided to support Napoleon III.
The War[]
The war was quick, lasting only 8 months. There were several small battles, and casualties were minimal.
The war ended with the assassination of Charles-Louis Bonaparte, and the signing of the European Acknowledgement of the Reign of Napoleon III Bonaparte.