Brochures on England and Roumania, 1858

Abstract

The beginning of 1858 was marked by the violent reopening of the refugee question, which had been dormant since 1852. An Italian, Felice Orsini, attempted to assassinate Napoleon III by throwing four bombs at the imperial carriage on its arrival at the opera on 14 January. The plot failed, although 10 persons were killed and 140 wounded. Upon investigation the French authorities discovered that the whole conspiracy had been planned in England. The refugee problem was to be discussed again with bitterness and sharp criticism. The English deplored the regicide attempt, but were annoyed and resentful of the French attitudes toward their laws and freedom.