The French Revolution was one of the most explosive and transformative events in world history. It shook France from 1789 to 1799 and reshaped the political landscape of Europe.
What Sparked the Revolution?
- Economic hardship: France was drowning in debt from wars and lavish royal spending.
- Social inequality: The rigid class system (clergy, nobility, and commoners) left most people powerless and overtaxed.
- Enlightenment ideas: Thinkers like Rousseau and Voltaire inspired calls for liberty, equality, and fraternity.
- Key Events
- 1789: The Estates-General convenes; the Third Estate breaks away to form the National Assembly.
- July 14, 1789: Storming of the Bastille—a symbol of royal tyranny.
- 1791–1792: The monarchy crumbles; France becomes a republic.
- 1793–1794: The Reign of Terror—tens of thousands executed, including King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette.
- 1799: Napoleon Bonaparte seizes power in the Coup of 18 Brumaire, ending the Revolution2.
- Legacy
- Abolished feudal privileges and monarchy.
- Inspired future revolutions and democratic movements.
- Introduced the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen.
Lesson Learning 