Class 9 History - Chapter 1: The French Revolution
Short Answer Questions
1. What was the Estates General? Why was it important in the French Revolution?
The Estates General was a political body in France comprising representatives from the three
estates-clergy, nobility, and commoners. It was important because its 1789 meeting led to the Third
Estate breaking away and declaring itself the National Assembly, initiating the French Revolution.
2. Who were the members of the Third Estate?
The Third Estate included peasants, artisans, workers, and the middle class such as lawyers,
teachers, doctors, and merchants. It formed the majority of the population but had the least
privileges and bore the burden of taxes.
3. What role did women play during the French Revolution?
Women participated actively in the French Revolution. They organized clubs, held political meetings,
and marched to Versailles demanding bread. Though they initially gained some rights, full political
equality was not achieved.
4. What was the significance of the storming of the Bastille?
The storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, symbolized the end of the king's absolute power. It
marked the beginning of the French Revolution and is now celebrated as France's National Day.
5. What was the Reign of Terror? Who led it?
The Reign of Terror (1793-1794) was a period of extreme violence during the revolution. It was led
by Maximilian Robespierre, who ordered mass executions of "enemies of the revolution" using the
guillotine.
Long Answer Questions
6. Explain the causes of the French Revolution.
The French Revolution had several causes:
- Social inequality: The First and Second Estates enjoyed privileges, while the Third Estate paid all
taxes.
- Economic crisis: France faced financial strain due to wars and extravagant royal spending.
- Enlightenment ideas: Philosophers like Rousseau and Voltaire promoted liberty, equality, and
democracy.
- Weak monarchy: King Louis XVI's indecisiveness worsened the crisis.
- Hunger and poverty: Poor harvests and rising bread prices led to widespread discontent.
These factors led the people to revolt against the monarchy in 1789.
7. Describe the role of philosophers like Rousseau, Montesquieu, and Voltaire in the French
Revolution.
Enlightenment philosophers inspired revolutionary ideas:
- Rousseau promoted the concept of the general will and popular sovereignty, arguing that
government should reflect the people's will.
- Montesquieu advocated the separation of powers in government-legislative, executive, and
judiciary-to prevent tyranny.
- Voltaire supported freedom of speech and religion and criticized the Church and monarchy.
Their writings inspired the French people to question traditional authority and demand equality and
democratic reforms.
8. How did the National Assembly change the system of governance in France?
The National Assembly, formed by the Third Estate in 1789, took key steps to end absolute
monarchy. It:
- Drafted the Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen, asserting liberty and equality.
- Abolished feudal privileges, making all citizens equal before the law.
- Created a constitutional monarchy, limiting the king's powers.
This marked a transition from monarchy to a government based on democratic principles.
9. What was the impact of the French Revolution on France and the world?
The revolution had a profound impact:
- In France, it ended the monarchy, abolished feudalism, and promoted liberty, equality, and
fraternity.
- Social hierarchies were questioned, and citizens gained rights.
- Across Europe and the world, it inspired other revolutions and the spread of democratic ideals.
- It influenced political thinking and contributed to the rise of modern nations based on citizenship
rather than monarchy.
10. Discuss the rise and fall of Napoleon Bonaparte in the context of the French Revolution.
Napoleon rose to power after the revolution's instability. In 1799, he staged a coup and became First
Consul, later declaring himself Emperor in 1804.
- He introduced reforms like the Napoleonic Code, centralized administration, and improved
education.
- However, his military ambitions led to wars across Europe.
- His defeat at Waterloo in 1815 and exile marked his fall.
Though he ended the revolution, Napoleon spread its ideas across Europe, influencing modern laws
and governance.
