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History Chapter 1 Notes

The French Revolution (1789–1799) was driven by political, social, economic, and intellectual causes, including the absolute monarchy of King Louis XVI and the rigid class system that oppressed the Third Estate. Key events included the formation of the National Assembly, the execution of Louis XVI, and the Reign of Terror led by Robespierre, ultimately leading to the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte. The revolution resulted in the end of monarchy and feudalism in France, promoting ideals of liberty, equality, and democracy that influenced global movements.

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4 views3 pages

History Chapter 1 Notes

The French Revolution (1789–1799) was driven by political, social, economic, and intellectual causes, including the absolute monarchy of King Louis XVI and the rigid class system that oppressed the Third Estate. Key events included the formation of the National Assembly, the execution of Louis XVI, and the Reign of Terror led by Robespierre, ultimately leading to the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte. The revolution resulted in the end of monarchy and feudalism in France, promoting ideals of liberty, equality, and democracy that influenced global movements.

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nisharthrajgarhia
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The French Revolution (1789–1799)

1. Background and Causes

Political Causes

France ruled by absolute monarchy → King had unlimited powers.

King Louis XVI (1774–1792) was weak, indecisive, and lavish in spending.

Marie Antoinette ("Madame Deficit") symbolized royal extravagance.

No political rights or voice for common people.

Social Causes (Rigid Class System)

First Estate (Clergy) – Owned 10% land, collected tithes, exempt from taxes.

Second Estate (Nobility) – 2% population, owned 30% land, enjoyed privileges, no taxes.

Third Estate (Commoners) – 97% population, divided into:

Bourgeoisie (middle class: merchants, lawyers, professionals).

Peasants (majority, paid feudal dues & taxes).

Urban workers (laborers, apprentices).

Inequality → anger against privileged estates.

Economic Causes

Heavy debts due to wars (7 Years War & American Revolution).

Extravagant court expenditure at Versailles.

Taxation burden fell entirely on Third Estate.

Bad harvests (1787–1788) → bread prices doubled → starvation & riots.

Intellectual Causes

Enlightenment ideas spread:

Voltaire (freedom of speech).

Rousseau (social contract, popular sovereignty).

Montesquieu (separation of powers).

American Revolution (1776) inspired French people.

2. Stages of the Revolution


1789 – The Beginning

May 1789: Estates-General called after 175 years.

Third Estate breaks away → forms National Assembly.

20 June: Tennis Court Oath – pledge not to separate until a constitution is written.

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

August 1789: Abolition of feudal privileges.

26 August 1789: Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen adopted.

1791 – Constitutional Monarchy

Constitution of 1791: Limited monarchy, separation of powers.

Louis XVI tries to flee (Flight to Varennes) → loses trust.

1792–1793 – Republic and Execution

War with Austria & Prussia (monarchies feared spread of revolution).

August 1792: Monarchy abolished → France becomes a Republic.

21 January 1793: King Louis XVI executed.

October 1793: Marie Antoinette executed.

1793–1794 – The Reign of Terror

Led by Robespierre (Jacobins, Committee of Public Safety).

Harsh measures: food rationing, censorship, mass executions by guillotine.

Enemies of revolution (real or suspected) executed.

July 1794: Robespierre executed → end of Terror.

1795–1799 – The Directory

New Constitution: executive power in hands of 5 Directors.

Directory weak, corrupt, and unstable.

Rise of Napoleon Bonaparte, who overthrew Directory in 1799.

3. Key Features & Concepts

Liberty, Equality, Fraternity – main ideals.

Guillotine became the “national razor.”


Symbols:

Tricolour flag (blue, white, red).

Phrygian cap (symbol of liberty).

La Marseillaise (national anthem).

4. Impact of the Revolution

In France

End of monarchy & feudalism.

Rise of equality before law.

Promotion of secularism.

Foundation for modern democracy.

In the World

Spread of nationalism & democratic ideals.

Inspired revolutions in Europe & Latin America.

Napoleon spread revolutionary principles across Europe.

5. Important Dates (Timeline)

5 May 1789 – Estates General called.

20 June 1789 – Tennis Court Oath.

14 July 1789 – Storming of Bastille.

26 August 1789 – Declaration of Rights of Man.

1791 – Constitution of 1791 (limited monarchy).

21 January 1793 – Execution of Louis XVI.

1793–1794 – Reign of Terror.

1795 – Directory established.

1799 – Rise of Napoleon, end of revolution.

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