The Fourth Republic refers to the government of France that existed from 1946 to 1958. It was established after World War II, aiming to create a stable democratic system. This period was marked by political instability, with numerous short-lived governments and frequent changes in leadership. The Fourth Republic faced challenges such as economic recovery and decolonization, particularly in Algeria. The government struggled to address these issues effectively, leading to a loss of public confidence. Ultimately, the political turmoil contributed to its collapse, paving the way for the establishment of the Fifth Republic under Charles de Gaulle in 1958.