Legislative Elections in France

The Méline Government and the Road to Elections

WEB Legislative elections were held in France on 8 and 22 May 1898. The government of Jules Méline, who had been prime minister since April 1896, had relied on a coalition of moderate Republicans and the conservative "Ralliés" faction of the Catholic Church. Méline's coalition was foundering before the elections, however, as the prioritization of anti-socialism had provoked opposition from clericals.

The Election Results

WEB 8 May Legislative election held
22 May Legislative election held
27 May The Leased Territory of Guangzhouwan (Kwang-Chou-Wan) or Territoire de Kouang-Tchéou-Wan is a former French leased territory in southern China.

Conclusion

The legislative elections of 1898 were a watershed moment in French politics, marking the end of Méline's government and the beginning of a new era of instability. The results of the election showed that the country was deeply divided, with the left and the right both gaining significant ground. This division would continue to plague French politics for decades to come, and it would ultimately lead to the outbreak of World War I.