On November 14th, the temperature in Berlin significantly rose compared to the previous days, but the morning temperature was still between 7 to 10 degrees Celsius. The biting cold pierced through the stylish but impractical coats of Berlin's petite bourgeoisie, affecting every inch of their skin. People on the streets had to huddle slightly as they hurried to work.
It was on this day that news emerged from Sanssouci Palace, sufficient to influence the developmental path of the Kingdom of Prussia for decades to come.
At 9 a.m., a message was transmitted from Sanssouci Palace to the two houses of Prussia, and then disseminated to various levels of government in Berlin.
"Due to a recent cold, King Frederick William IV of the Kingdom of Prussia cannot handle state affairs. Therefore, Crown Prince William Frederick Ludwig is entrusted to handle all major and minor state affairs of Prussia.
