"The French Revolution [...] began with the Estates General of 1789, and ended with the formation of the French Consulate in November 1799."
This subfield studies the political and social upheaval that took place in France during the late 18th century.
The Enlightenment: An intellectual movement that emphasized reason, individualism, and freedom and inspired many of the French Revolution's ideas.
Social Structure in France: The hierarchy of society in the 18th century, including the nobility, bourgeoisie, and peasantry, which played a significant role in the revolution.
Financial Crisis in France: The economic problems of the French government in the 18th century that led to a debt crisis and bankruptcy.
Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette: The last King and Queen of France, who were criticized for their lavish lifestyle and decision-making leading up to the revolution.
Estates-General: The legislative assembly that consisted of representatives from each of the three estates, which was called by Louis XVI initially to address the financial crisis.
National Assembly: The representative body created by members of the Third Estate who were excluded from the Estates-General and served as the governing body of France during the revolution.
Storming of the Bastille: The iconic event that symbolized the revolution's beginning, when Parisians attacked the Bastille fortress on July 14, 1789.
The Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen: A document created by the National Assembly that outlined citizens' natural rights and established the sovereignty of the people.
Reign of Terror: A period during the revolution characterized by mass executions and violence against perceived enemies of the revolution.
The Rise of Napoleon Bonaparte: A military general who emerged as a prominent leader during the revolution and eventually became the Emperor of France.
Political Revolution: The French Revolution is often seen as a political revolution because it brought significant changes to the political structure of France, such as the end of absolute monarchy and the establishment of democratic republics.
Social Revolution: The French Revolution also had a significant impact on the social structure of France. It led to the erosion of the traditional class system and the rise of a new middle class.
Economic Revolution: The French Revolution brought about significant changes to the French economy, such as the abolishment of feudalism and the establishment of free trade.
Cultural Revolution: The French Revolution also had an impact on French culture, particularly in the areas of literature, art, and philosophy. It encouraged new ideas and intellectual freedom.
Radical and Moderate Phases: The French Revolution is often divided into radical and moderate phases, depending on the level of violence and radicalism of the changes made during those periods.
Nationalistic and International Revolution: The French Revolution had a significant impact on not only France but also other countries. It inspired nationalist movements in other countries and contributed to the spread of the revolutionary ideals throughout Europe.
"Many of its ideas are considered fundamental principles of liberal democracy."
"Its causes are generally agreed to be a combination of social, political and economic factors."
"In May 1789, widespread social distress led to the convocation of the Estates General."
"Continuing unrest culminated in the Storming of the Bastille on 14 July."
"...the abolition of feudalism, the imposition of state control over the Catholic Church in France, and extension of the right to vote."
"Austria, Britain, Prussia and other external powers sought to restore the Ancien Régime by force."
"Many French politicians saw war as the best way to unite the nation and preserve the revolution by exporting it to other countries."
"Following the Paris-based Insurrection of 31 May – 2 June 1793, the constitution was suspended and effective political power passed from the National Convention to the more radical Committee of Public Safety."
"An estimated 16,000 'counter-revolutionaries' were executed during the subsequent Reign of Terror."
"The Reign of Terror [...] ended with the so-called Thermidorian Reaction in July 1794."
"Weakened by a combination of external threats and internal opposition, in November 1795 the Republic was replaced by the Directory."
"The Consulate seized power in a military coup led by Napoleon Bonaparte."
"This is generally seen as marking the end of the Revolutionary period."
"The next three years were dominated by the struggle for political control, exacerbated by economic depression and civil disorder."
"The French Revolutionary Wars in April 1792, abolition of the French monarchy."
"...followed by the execution of Louis XVI in January 1793."
"Following the Paris-based Insurrection of 31 May – 2 June 1793, the constitution was suspended and effective political power passed from the National Convention to the more radical Committee of Public Safety."
"[...] the values and institutions it created remain central to French political discourse."
"...the abolition of feudalism, the imposition of state control over the Catholic Church in France, and extension of the right to vote."