French Revolution Overview

French Revolution

The French Revolution was a period of radical social and political upheaval that occurred between 1789 and 1799 in France. It had numerous causes, including Enlightenment ideas of equality and liberty, economic issues like devaluing currency and rising taxes, and the corruption of the monarchy. During this time, traditional privileges were abolished, feudalism ended, and most famously, the guillotine was used for public executions. The revolution also included many major events such as storming the Bastille, the Tennis Court Oath, their Declaration of Rights, and the nine Thermidorian Reaction.

One result of the Revolution was the introduction of democratic reforms which led to increased competition amongst politicians. However, it is widely agreed that while there may have been new opportunities created by what happened during the French Revolution, these were outweighed by major problems caused by it. In summary, the French Revolution altered the course of history due to its significant impacts on politics, society, and culture. Some key figures involved with the Revolution include Louis XVI, Marie Curie, Jean-Paul Marat, Maximilien Robespierre, Georges Danton, and Jean Pichegru.

In terms of its lasting influence, one can see how the values enshrined in the Declaration of the Rights of Man were adopted into constitutions globally; the concept of national sovereignty became commonplace around the world thanks to the Revolution; and, perhaps most importantly, the idea that regular people could overthrow their rulers spread throughout Europe, inspiring revolutions elsewhere. All told, the French Revolution was a watershed moment in global history, having long term implications far beyond just France itself.