Declaration of Saint-Ouen facts for kids

The Declaration of Saint-Ouen was an important promise made by the future King Louis XVIII of France. He made this statement on May 2, 1814. It happened just before he arrived in Paris, in a town called Saint-Ouen.

This declaration was a big step for the return of the House of Bourbon family to the throne of France. This period is known as the “First Restoration”. It followed the defeat of Napoleon in the Napoleonic Wars and his forced departure from power.

Unlike some other kings who returned to power, Louis XVIII did not want to rule with total power (called absolutism). Instead, he looked at a draft constitution. He promised to give people basic freedoms. He also promised that citizens would have a say in their government. Everyone would be equal under the law.

What Was the Declaration of Saint-Ouen?

When Louis XVIII arrived in France, the government had already suggested a new constitution. This was part of the Treaty of Paris. The future king looked at this suggested plan. He said that its main ideas were good. However, he felt some parts were written too quickly. He said they could not become the country's main laws as they were.

But Louis XVIII promised to create a new, "liberal constitution." This new plan would be written by a special group from the Parliament.

Key Promises in the Declaration

Louis XVIII declared that the new constitution would keep a representative government. This means people would elect their leaders. The government would have two parts, like a Senate and a House of Representatives.

The declaration also promised to protect several important freedoms:

• Freedom of the press: People could write and publish what they thought.
• Freedom of opinion: People could express their views.
• Freedom of worship: People could practice any religion they chose.
• Personal and public liberty: People would have freedom in their daily lives.

Protecting Changes Made by Napoleon

An important part of the declaration was about land. During the French Revolution, many rich families (aristocrats) had left France. Their lands were sold. The declaration stated that these lands would not be taken back. No money would be given to the old owners.

Also, the declaration said that Napoleon's laws would stay in place. Awards like the Legion of Honor, given to those loyal to Napoleon, would also continue. Even Napoleon's changes to education, like the University of Paris, would remain.

Some people, called Ultra-royalists, wanted to undo all of Napoleon's changes. They wanted to go back to how things were before the French Revolution. But King Louis XVIII's promises showed he was more open to keeping some of the new ways.

The new constitution, which was promised in this declaration, was later adopted. It became known as the Charter of 1814.

Online Information

• (English translation) "Declaration of St. Ouen". From The Napoleon Series.