Frederick William IV of Prussia

Reign: 1840 – 1861
Life: 1795–1861

He feared revolutions, and his ideal state was one governed by the Christian estates of the realm rather than a constitutional monarchy. In spite of his conservative political philosophy, he initially pursued a moderate policy of easing press censorship, releasing political prisoners and reconciling with the Catholic population of the kingdom. In December 1848, he dissolved the Prussian National Assembly when he found its constitutional proposals too radical. At the urging of his ministry, which wanted to prevent a renewal of unrest, he imposed a constitution with a parliament and a strong monarch. He then used the Prussian military to help put down revolutionary forces throughout the German Confederation. Frederick William IV had an artistic nature and an interest in architecture.

During Frederick William IV of Prussia's reign, Isabella II of Spain ruled Spain, Nicholas I of Russia ruled Russia, and Maria II of Portugal ruled Portugal.

Want to learn more? Further reading

Iron Kingdom: The Rise and Downfall of Prussia, 1600–1947 by Christopher Clark

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The most notable rulers who held power elsewhere at the same time, from European courts to Ottoman, Mughal, and Chinese thrones.

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From the library

Go deeper on Frederick William IV of Prussia

Hand-picked histories and biographies for readers who want more than the timeline: the same era, told in full.

Iron Kingdom: The Rise and Downfall of Prussia, 1600–1947

Christopher Clark

The romantic conservative king of 1848, failed constitutions and the path to Bismarck.

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Frederick the Great: King of Prussia
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A modern life of Prussia's most famous king, useful context for the whole Hohenzollern line.
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