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French Revolution Class9 Notes

The French Revolution (1789-1799) marked the end of monarchy in France and the rise of democracy and equality, inspired by Enlightenment ideas. Key events included the meeting of the Estates General, the Tennis Court Oath, and the storming of the Bastille, leading to the execution of the monarchy and the establishment of a republic. The revolution resulted in significant social and political changes, influencing future revolutions worldwide.

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40 views3 pages

French Revolution Class9 Notes

The French Revolution (1789-1799) marked the end of monarchy in France and the rise of democracy and equality, inspired by Enlightenment ideas. Key events included the meeting of the Estates General, the Tennis Court Oath, and the storming of the Bastille, leading to the execution of the monarchy and the establishment of a republic. The revolution resulted in significant social and political changes, influencing future revolutions worldwide.

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jckandpal101
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© © All Rights Reserved
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French Revolution - Class 9 Notes

Introduction

- The French Revolution began in 1789 and ended in 1799.

- It led to the end of monarchy in France and the rise of democracy & equality.

- Inspired revolutions around the world.

1. Causes of the Revolution

Social Causes

- Society was divided into Three Estates:

1st: Clergy (church officials) - No taxes

2nd: Nobility (lords, aristocrats) - No taxes

3rd: Commoners (peasants, workers, bourgeoisie) - Paid all taxes, no privileges

Economic Causes

- France was in debt due to wars & lavish spending by the king.

- Heavy taxes on the poor.

- High price of bread people were starving.

Political Causes

- Absolute monarchy under Louis XVI.

- Enlightenment ideas of liberty & equality spread by philosophers like Rousseau & Voltaire.

2. Key Events of the Revolution

a) Meeting of the Estates General (May 1789)


- King Louis XVI called a meeting to raise taxes.

- 3rd Estate demanded equal representation but was ignored.

b) Tennis Court Oath (June 1789)

- 3rd Estate formed the National Assembly.

- Took an oath to write a new constitution.

c) Storming of the Bastille (July 14, 1789)

- Angry citizens attacked the Bastille prison, a symbol of tyranny.

- Marks the start of the revolution.

d) Declaration of the Rights of Man (August 1789)

- National Assembly declared all citizens equal.

- Gave rights like liberty, property, security, and resistance to oppression.

3. Phases of the Revolution

Moderate Phase (1789-1792)

- National Assembly abolished feudalism & privileges.

- King remained but with reduced powers.

Radical Phase (1792-1794)

- Monarchy abolished; France declared a republic.

- King & Queen executed.

- Reign of Terror: led by Robespierre, thousands executed by guillotine.

Directory (1794-1799)
- After Robespierre's death, a group of 5 leaders ruled.

- Weak government.

Rise of Napoleon (1799)

- Napoleon Bonaparte seized power & ended the revolution.

4. Outcomes of the Revolution

End of monarchy & feudalism.

Rights of man & citizen adopted.

Church's power reduced.

Inspired revolutions worldwide.

Rise of nationalism in France.

Important People

- Louis XVI: King of France, executed.

- Marie Antoinette: Queen of France, executed.

- Robespierre: Leader of Reign of Terror.

- Napoleon: Military leader, became emperor.

Summary

The French Revolution was a turning point in world history. It ended centuries of monarchy and

privilege and introduced the modern ideas of democracy, equality, and nationalism.

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