History Notes: The French Revolution (1789)
Introduction
The French Revolution was a period of radical social and political change in France from 1789 to
1799. It marked the end of absolute monarchy, the rise of democracy, and inspired revolutions
across the world.
Causes of the French Revolution
- Political Causes: Absolute monarchy and inefficient administration under Louis XVI.
- Social Causes: Rigid division into three estates, inequality, and privileges of clergy and nobility.
- Economic Causes: Heavy taxation, financial crisis due to wars, and food scarcity.
- Intellectual Causes: Enlightenment ideas of liberty, equality, and fraternity.
Course of the Revolution
- 1789: Estates-General meeting and formation of the National Assembly.
- July 14, 1789: Storming of the Bastille – symbol of tyranny.
- 1791: New Constitution limiting the king’s powers.
- 1792–1793: France becomes a republic, King Louis XVI executed.
- 1793–1794: Reign of Terror under Robespierre.
- 1799: Rise of Napoleon Bonaparte and end of the Revolution.
Impact of the French Revolution
- End of monarchy and feudal privileges.
- Declaration of Rights of Man and Citizen guaranteed liberty and equality.
- Inspired democratic movements worldwide.
- Spread nationalism in Europe.
- Rise of Napoleon reshaped European politics.
Key Dates to Remember
- 1789: Storming of the Bastille
- 1791: First Constitution of France
- 1792: France declared a Republic
- 1793: Execution of Louis XVI
- 1799: Napoleon takes power
Conclusion
The French Revolution was a turning point in world history. It ended centuries of monarchy, spread
ideas of democracy and equality, and left a lasting impact on modern political thought.
