Scribd
Upload
38 views3 pages

French Revolution Class9 Detailed Notes

The French Revolution, beginning in 1789, ended the monarchy and introduced democratic ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity. It was marked by significant events such as the formation of the National Assembly, the storming of the Bastille, and the execution of King Louis XVI, leading to a republic and the Reign of Terror. Ultimately, the revolution abolished feudalism and inspired democratic movements worldwide, culminating in Napoleon's rise to power.

Uploaded by

shreyanshasati884
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
38 views3 pages

French Revolution Class9 Detailed Notes

The French Revolution, beginning in 1789, ended the monarchy and introduced democratic ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity. It was marked by significant events such as the formation of the National Assembly, the storming of the Bastille, and the execution of King Louis XVI, leading to a republic and the Reign of Terror. Ultimately, the revolution abolished feudalism and inspired democratic movements worldwide, culminating in Napoleon's rise to power.

Uploaded by

shreyanshasati884
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as DOCX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 3

Class 9 History - Chapter 1: The French

Revolution
1. Introduction
The French Revolution began in 1789.

It marked the end of monarchy and rise of democracy in France.

Inspired revolutions in Europe, Latin America, and elsewhere.

Introduction of key ideas: liberty, equality, fraternity, and democracy.

2. French Society in the Late 18th Century


Old Regime: Society divided into three estates:

1. First Estate – Clergy (exempt from taxes).

2. Second Estate – Nobility (enjoyed privileges, paid no tax).

3. Third Estate – Commoners (paid all taxes, no privileges).

Peasants and Workers: Paid tithes (Church tax) and taille (state tax).

Middle Class: Educated bourgeoisie inspired by Enlightenment ideas.

3. The Struggle to Survive


Bad harvests in 1787–1788 → food shortage and high bread prices.

Economic hardship due to war debts, royal extravagance, and lack of industry.

4. A Growing Middle Class Envisages an End to Privileges


Enlightenment thinkers like Locke, Rousseau, Montesquieu questioned monarchy.

Third Estate demanded a constitution, end to feudal privileges.

5. The Outbreak of the Revolution


1789: Estates-General meeting called by King Louis XVI.

Third Estate forms National Assembly and takes Tennis Court Oath.

14 July 1789: Storming of the Bastille (symbol of royal tyranny).

6. France Becomes a Constitutional Monarchy


Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen: All men are free and equal.
1791 Constitution: Limited monarchy and separation of powers.

Only active (property-owning) citizens could vote.

7. France Abolishes Monarchy and Becomes a Republic


War with Austria and Prussia in 1792.

Rise of Jacobins led by Robespierre.

1793: King Louis XVI executed by guillotine.

8. The Reign of Terror (1793–94)


Robespierre’s harsh rule: Execution of enemies of revolution.

Thousands guillotined including Queen Marie Antoinette.

Ended with Robespierre’s fall in 1794.

9. A Directory Rules France (1795–1799)


New constitution: Power in hands of 5 directors.

Weak and corrupt rule led to military rise.

10. Rise of Napoleon Bonaparte


1799: Napoleon staged a coup and became First Consul.

Later declared himself Emperor; brought reforms and stability.

11. Legacy of the French Revolution


Ended feudalism and monarchy in France.

Spread democratic ideas and nationalism across the world.

Inspired leaders like Tipu Sultan and Raja Rammohan Roy.

12. Important Terms


Estates General – Assembly of the three estates.

Tithe – Church tax.

Taille – State tax.

Bastille – Prison symbolizing royal oppression.

Guillotine – Execution device.

Republic – Government without monarchy.

Jacobin Club – Radical revolutionaries.


Timeline Summary
1789 – Estates-General, National Assembly, Bastille stormed.

1791 – Constitutional Monarchy.

1792 – Republic declared.

1793 – King executed, Reign of Terror begins.

1794 – Robespierre executed.

1799 – Napoleon gains power.

You might also like