The French Revolution
1. Introduction
The French Revolution (1789-1799) was a period of radical social and political change in France. It
led to the end of the monarchy, the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte, and the establishment of a secular
and democratic republic.
2. Causes of the French Revolution
Social Inequality:
The Estates System divided society into three estates: Clergy (First Estate), Nobility (Second
Estate), and Commoners (Third Estate).
Economic Hardships:
France's involvement in expensive wars, including the American Revolution, led to national debt.
Enlightenment Ideas:
Philosophers like Voltaire, Rousseau, and Montesquieu promoted ideas of liberty, equality, and
fraternity.
Weak Leadership:
King Louis XVI's inability to manage the economic crisis and his indecisiveness exacerbated the
situation.
3. Key Events
The Estates-General (1789):
The meeting of the three estates to address the financial crisis.
The National Assembly (1789):
Formed by the Third Estate, declaring themselves as the true representatives of the people.
The Fall of the Bastille (July 14, 1789):
1. Introduction
The French Revolution (1789-1799) was a period of radical social and political change in France. It
led to the end of the monarchy, the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte, and the establishment of a secular
and democratic republic.
2. Causes of the French Revolution
Social Inequality:
The Estates System divided society into three estates: Clergy (First Estate), Nobility (Second
Estate), and Commoners (Third Estate).
Economic Hardships:
France's involvement in expensive wars, including the American Revolution, led to national debt.
Enlightenment Ideas:
Philosophers like Voltaire, Rousseau, and Montesquieu promoted ideas of liberty, equality, and
fraternity.
Weak Leadership:
King Louis XVI's inability to manage the economic crisis and his indecisiveness exacerbated the
situation.
3. Key Events
The Estates-General (1789):
The meeting of the three estates to address the financial crisis.
The National Assembly (1789):
Formed by the Third Estate, declaring themselves as the true representatives of the people.
The Fall of the Bastille (July 14, 1789):
