The French Second Republic was established in 1848 after the February Revolution, which led to the abdication of King Louis-Philippe. It aimed to create a democratic government and was characterized by universal male suffrage and the establishment of a president. The republic faced numerous challenges, including economic difficulties and social unrest. In 1851, tensions escalated, leading to a coup by Louis-Napoléon Bonaparte, who later declared himself Emperor Napoleon III, effectively ending the Second Republic. This period lasted until 1852, transitioning France from a republic back to an empire, marking a significant shift in its political landscape.