Causes of the French Revolution

LuckyRosemary avatar
LuckyRosemary
·
·
Download

Start Quiz

Study Flashcards

15 Questions

What was the main reason for the French loss in the Seven Years' War?

They were unable to finance the war

The Enlightenment movement emphasized superstition over reason.

False

What was the main problem with the representation of the Third Estate in the Estates General?

Inequality and the 2-1 problem from the First and Second Estate

The Storming of the Bastille took place on the morning of _______________________, 1789.

July 14

What was the main goal of the March on Versailles?

To demonstrate the power of the people

The First Estate had the power to directly obtain taxes paid by the Third Estate.

True

Match the following events with their significance:

Estates General = Highlighting the representation problem of the Third Estate Tennis Court Oath = Demonstrating the Third Estate's commitment to reform Storming of the Bastille = Showing the power of the people to challenge the monarchy March on Versailles = Demonstrating the power of the people

What was the significance of the French Revolution?

It solidified the ground in which our societies exist, where countries are formed and governed by a collection of legalized citizens

The Reign of Terror was a period of intense violence and executions during the French Revolution.

True

What was the main difference between communism and capitalism?

Communism is characterized by no private ownership, central government, and production for basic needs, while capitalism is characterized by total private ownership, market forces, and production for profit.

The National Assembly adopted the Declaration of Rights of Man and Citizen in ___________.

August 1789

Match the following countries with their economic systems:

China = Communism Hong Kong = Capitalism Cuba = Communism Australia = Capitalism

What was the outcome of the French Revolution in 1792?

The French Republic was declared

Napoleon established a republic in France in 1799.

False

What was the fate of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette during the French Revolution?

They were executed in 1793.

Study Notes

Causes of the French Revolution

  • France was financially drained due to failed wars of expansion against the British in North America, resulting in a significant loss of monetary resources.
  • The country was divided into regions with conflicting economic interests, leading to political instability.
  • The Enlightenment movement emphasized reason over superstition, challenging religious ideas and rulership.
  • The Resistance of the First and Second Estates to taxes led to an unfair burden on the Third Estate, who paid 98% of the taxes.

Major Events of the French Revolution

  • The Estates General meeting highlighted the representation problem for the Third Estate, with the First and Second Estates holding 2-1 voting power.
  • The Tennis Court Oath saw the Third Estate vow to continue meeting until the country's foundations were reformed.
  • The Storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, demonstrated the power of the people to challenge the monarchy.
  • The March on Versailles led to the overthrow of the French absolute monarchy system.

Key Outcomes of the French Revolution

  • The Declaration of Rights of Man and Citizen (August 1789) guaranteed liberty, equality, and fraternity, inspired by Enlightenment ideas.
  • The abolition of the monarchy in September 1792 led to the establishment of the French Republic.
  • The Reign of Terror, led by radical Jacobins, resulted in intense violence and executions by guillotine.
  • Napoleon's seizure of power in 1799 established a dictatorship.

Significance of the French Revolution

  • The revolution solidified the foundation of modern societies, where citizens are governed by a collection of legalized citizens.
  • It established the principle of equality between governors and citizens, with governments accountable to the people.

Communism vs. Capitalism

  • Communism: no private ownership, central government, no class distinction, production for basic needs.
  • Capitalism: total private ownership, market forces, class distinction, production for profit.

Examples of Each System

  • Communism:
    • China: government-controlled manufacturing industry.
    • Cuba: government-controlled healthcare.
    • Vietnam: communist party in control.
    • North Korea: government-controlled economy.
  • Capitalism:
    • Hong Kong: free market economy with low taxes.
    • United Arab Emirates: highly developed economy with minimal government intervention.
    • Australia: limited government involvement in the economy.
    • Switzerland: strong free market economy.

Explore the events that led to the French Revolution, including failed wars and political instability. Learn how these factors contributed to the revolution and shaped French history.

Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards

Convert your notes into interactive study material.

Get started for free
Use Quizgecko on...
Browser
Browser