(Byron Lives) Quick question about regents, the Habsburg Empire and such

[Justin Pickard]

Spurred by news of France’s liberal reforms in spring 1848, Vienna was plunged into revolution. The Austrian government hoped to appease the rebels in pressing for the resignation of Chancellor Metternich (1773-1858) and pledging to issue a constitution. Emperor Ferdinand (1793-1848) sinks into a fever which, exacerbated by stress, causes his death in early May. With a seventeen year old heir in Franz Josef (1830-), but no willing regent, the Empire undergoes a period of constitutional confusion.

Does this make sense? Any potential regents? Anyone know why Franz Karl (1802-78) renounced his right to the throne?

It may only be six months difference, but I can't quite see how to work it.

 

[Rick Robinson]

With a seventeen year old heir in Franz Josef (1830-), but no willing regent, the Empire undergoes a period of constitutional confusion.

With the heir so close to his majority, I doubt that a regency is necessary, and Franz Josef can assume direct rule. A 17-year-old may not be particularly mature, but it is not like a true child monarch situation.

-- Rick