The Franco-Prussian War in 1870 precipitates a political crisis as Francophile Liberal Party members denounce Romania's German prince.

In August, pro-French activists lead an abortive revolt against Charles at Ploiesti.

Although the government quickly suppresses the uprising, a jury acquits the leaders.

A scandal erupts when a Prussian-Jewish contractor bungles construction of key Romanian rail links and defaults on interest payments to Prussian bondholders; the Liberals denounce Charles for pledging to back the bonds.

In March 1871 the Bucharest police look on as an angry crowd attacks a hall in which Germans have gathered to celebrate Prussian war victories.

A day later, Charles hands his abdication to the regents who had installed him.

They persuade the prince to remain on the throne, however, and muster conservative forces to support him.