French Revolution (1789–1799) – Detailed Class Notes
1. Introduction
---------------
Definition of Revolution:
- A revolution is a fundamental and sudden change in political power and political
organization, often accompanied by social and economic upheaval.
Historical Significance:
- The French Revolution marked the end of absolute monarchy in France and the rise
of democratic ideals.
- It profoundly influenced global politics, inspiring revolutions and reform
movements worldwide.
2. Causes of the French Revolution
----------------------------------
Social Inequality:
- French society was divided into three estates:
- First Estate: Clergy – privileged, exempt from taxes.
- Second Estate: Nobility – privileged, exempt from taxes.
- Third Estate: Commoners – bourgeoisie, peasants, workers; bore the tax burden.
Economic Crisis:
- France faced massive debt due to costly wars, including support for the American
Revolution.
- Poor harvests led to food shortages and soaring bread prices.
- Extravagant spending by the monarchy worsened the financial situation.
Political Factors:
- Absolute monarchy under Louis XVI suppressed political participation.
- Enlightenment thinkers (Rousseau, Voltaire, Locke) promoted ideas of liberty,
equality, and fraternity.
Immediate Triggers:
- The Estates-General meeting in May 1789 led to the Third Estate forming the
National Assembly, challenging royal authority.
3. Major Phases of the Revolution
----------------------------------
National Assembly (1789):
- Formed by the Third Estate to represent the people.
- Initiated constitutional reforms.
Storming of the Bastille (14 July 1789):
- Symbolized the uprising against royal tyranny.
Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen (August 1789):
- Asserted individual rights and equality before the law.
Constitutional Monarchy (1791):
- Limited the king’s powers and established a legislative assembly.
Republic and Abolition of Monarchy (1792):
- France declared a republic; monarchy abolished.
Reign of Terror (1793–1794):
- Led by Robespierre; mass executions of perceived enemies.
Directory (1795–1799):
- A five-member committee governed France; marked by corruption and inefficiency.
Rise of Napoleon (1799):
- Napoleon Bonaparte’s coup d'état ended the revolution and established the
Consulate.
4. Key Figures
--------------
- Louis XVI: King of France; executed in 1793.
- Marie Antoinette: Queen; symbol of royal excess; executed.
- Maximilien Robespierre: Leader of the Reign of Terror.
- Georges Danton: Revolutionary leader; advocated for the poor.
- Jean-Paul Marat: Radical journalist; incited revolutionary fervor.
- Napoleon Bonaparte: Military leader who rose to power post-revolution.
5. Impact of the Revolution
----------------------------
- Abolition of feudal privileges and class distinctions.
- Spread of revolutionary and democratic ideals across Europe.
- Rise of nationalism and citizen participation in governance.
- Inspired future revolutions (e.g., Haitian, Latin American).
- Demonstrated the power of collective action against tyranny.
6. Timeline Table
------------------
Year | Event | Significance
--------|--------------------------------------|-----------------------------
1774 | Louis XVI becomes king | Start of reign leading to crisis
1789 | Estates-General, Bastille stormed | Beginning of revolution
1791 | Constitution adopted | Limits monarchy
1792 | Republic declared | End of monarchy
1793 | King executed | Radical phase begins
1793–94 | Reign of Terror | Political purges and executions
1795 | Directory established | Attempt at stable governance
1799 | Napoleon's coup | Revolution ends, new regime
7. Conclusion
--------------
Legacy:
- The French Revolution reshaped political thought, emphasizing rights,
citizenship, and democratic governance.
- It influenced art, literature, and philosophy, embedding revolutionary ideals in
global culture.
- Its lessons continue to inform struggles for justice and equality worldwide.
