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French Revolution Notes

The French Revolution (1789–1799) was a significant period of political and social upheaval in France that resulted in the end of the monarchy, the rise of republicanism, and widespread violence. Key events included the formation of the National Assembly, the execution of King Louis XVI, and the Reign of Terror led by Robespierre. The Revolution abolished feudal privileges, spread revolutionary ideas across Europe, and inspired global movements for democracy and equality.

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56 views2 pages

French Revolution Notes

The French Revolution (1789–1799) was a significant period of political and social upheaval in France that resulted in the end of the monarchy, the rise of republicanism, and widespread violence. Key events included the formation of the National Assembly, the execution of King Louis XVI, and the Reign of Terror led by Robespierre. The Revolution abolished feudal privileges, spread revolutionary ideas across Europe, and inspired global movements for democracy and equality.

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moorege24
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Historical Notes: The French Revolution (1789–1799)

Event Summary:
The French Revolution was a period of radical political and social upheaval in
France that lasted from 1789 to 1799. It led to the downfall of the monarchy,
rise of republicanism, widespread violence, and reshaped France and Europe.
Background:
- France faced economic crisis due to costly wars (like the American
Revolution), heavy taxation, and widespread famine. - The population was
divided into three estates: the clergy (First Estate), nobility (Second Estate),
and commoners (Third Estate). - The Third Estate carried the tax burden
despite having the least privilege. - Enlightenment ideas challenged
traditional monarchy and promoted liberty, equality, and fraternity.
Key Events:
- 1789: Estates-General convened to address the financial crisis; the Third
Estate formed the National Assembly. - July 14, 1789: Storming of the
Bastille, a symbol of royal tyranny. - 1789–1791: National Assembly
abolished feudal privileges, issued the Declaration of the Rights of Man and
of the Citizen. - 1791: France became a constitutional monarchy. - 1792–
1793: Radical phase began; monarchy abolished, France declared a
republic. - January 21, 1793: King Louis XVI executed. - 1793–1794: Reign
of Terror under Robespierre and the Committee of Public Safety; thousands
executed. - 1794: Robespierre overthrown and executed. - 1795: The
Directory, a five-member government, took power but was weak and corrupt.
- 1799: Napoleon Bonaparte staged a coup d’état, ending the Revolution
and beginning the Napoleonic era.
Key Figures:
- King Louis XVI: Executed monarch. - Marie Antoinette: Queen, also
executed. - Maximilien Robespierre: Leader during the Reign of Terror. -
Georges Danton & Jean-Paul Marat: Radical revolutionary leaders. -
Napoleon Bonaparte: Military leader who rose to power at the Revolution’s
end.
Impact:
- Abolished absolute monarchy and feudal privileges. - Spread revolutionary
ideas across Europe. - Led to the rise of Napoleon and the Napoleonic Wars. -
Inspired revolutions worldwide.
Key Dates:
- May 5, 1789: Estates-General opens. - July 14, 1789: Bastille stormed. -
January 21, 1793: King executed. - 1793–1794: Reign of Terror. -
November 9, 1799: Napoleon’s coup.
Legacy:
- The Revolution remains a symbol of popular struggle for democracy and
equality. - The tricolor flag, the motto “Liberté, égalité, fraternité,” and
Bastille Day are lasting symbols. - Its radical changes shaped modern France
and influenced political thought globally.

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