French Revolution Overview Quiz

Introduction

The French Revolution was a period of radical social and political upheaval from 1789 until around 1799. It started with the call for more democracy and equality within France, which led to several tensions between the government and its people. This revolution had several causes, key events, leaders, impacts, and significant consequences.

Causes of the French Revolution

Several reasons contributed to the beginning of this turbulent time in history. Economic factors such as high taxes and limited access to food were among them. High levels of unemployment also played a role. Additionally, there was widespread discontent due to the unequal distribution of power within society, and feudalism's hold over much of rural life. Other key issues included high prices for goods, corruption by those in positions of authority, and inequality of wealth between the upper classes and everyone else.

Timeline and Key Events

In 1789, Parisians stormed into Versailles palace where they confronted King Louis XVI and his wife Marie Curie; these were some of the first major steps towards change. In June 1790, the National Assembly decreed that all the king's People would pay taxes equally. On July 14th, 1790, Bastille prison fell under attack amidst calls for freedom and justice throughout France. Later, during the Reign of Terror the guillotine became commonplace. During another year, Napoleon Bonaparte took control of almost everything - he even outlawed religion! Finally, after two years of fighting, peace came back to most parts of Europe.

Leaders and Figures

Some influential figures during the French Revolution were Maximilien Robespierre who inspired the Reign of Terror, Georges Danton, Jean Paul Marat, Camille Desmoulins, Antoine Lavoisier, Anne de Saint-Juste, Jacques Hébert, André Dumont and Nathalie de Saint-Hilaire. There is also mention of other important players like Girondists (who supported moderates), Jacobins (more extreme left) and Montagnards (ultra-radicals).

The Reign of Terror

This period lasted from September 1793-July 1794 when it actually ended because too many people died unnecessarily due to their beliefs or ideas that contradicted what others believed in. During the Reign of Terror, thousands died every single day. At one point over 50% percent of men aged twenty to thirty were executed! Over 400,000 individuals were tried before special tribunals set up specifically for this purpose. Many famous people lost their lives during the Reign of Terror including King Louis XVI himself.

Impact and Legacy

Aside from creating the rule 'No Monarchy', the French Revolution resulted in great changes economically, politically, socially, culturally. It sparked nationalism across the continent, leading eventually to new governments based upon principles of popular sovereignty. Its legacy includes modern constitutions adopted world wide today. Some say women gained equal rights too! However, some negative things happened too such as fear provoking terror tactics against citizens causing mass panic. Unfortunately though, despite bringing hope for better times ahead, many suffered greatly while trying to achieve progress through violence during its reign.