French Revolution: 14 July 1789

The French Revolution

• The Storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, marked the beginning of the French Revolution.

The Formation of the People's Militia

• The citizens of Paris formed a people's militia on July 14, 1789, to counter the King's authority and protect themselves from potential violence.

The Significance of the Bastille

• The Bastille, a symbol of the absolute monarchy and oppression, held political prisoners, many of whom were detained without trial.
• The Bastille also represented the arbitrary power of the King, who could imprison anyone without justification.

The Storming of the Bastille

• The release of prisoners from the Bastille during the storming was not the primary goal; rather, the citizens sought to obtain gunpowder and arms to strengthen their militia.
• The prisoners' release was a consequence of the storming, as the citizens discovered only seven prisoners, including four forgers, two noblemen, and a mentally ill person.

Historical Significance of the Storming of the Bastille

• Historians viewed the storming of the Bastille as a significant event because it symbolized the end of absolute monarchy and the beginning of a new era of liberty, equality, and democracy.

Aftermath of the Storming

• After demolishing the Bastille, the citizens of Paris took action to establish a new government, adopting the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, which enshrined the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity.