Tennis Court Oath Overview

Study Notes

Tennis Court Oath

The Tennis Court Oath was taken by deputies of the Third Estate on June 20, 1789, after being locked out of their meeting hall.
Deputies gathered in a tennis court due to fears of a royalist conspiracy and pledged not to disband until a constitution was established.
Emmanuel Sieyès wrote the oath, which was administered by Jean-Sylvain Bailly and signed by 576 deputies, with one abstainer.
Revolutionary artist Jacques-Louis David depicted the oath, highlighting its historical significance.
The Oath exemplified the Third Estate's determination and marked a transition towards a constitutional monarchy.

Significance of the Tennis Court Oath

Represented escalating unrest against King Louis XVI and laid groundwork for significant events such as the Declaration of the Rights of Man and the storming of the Bastille.
Central to the evolution of modern democracy in France, emphasizing popular sovereignty and national representation.

The Royal Session (June 23, 1789)

Louis XVI annulled the formation of the National Assembly and insisted that estates meet separately unless otherwise permitted.
Proposed equal taxation with Estates-General consent and promised to extend provincial assemblies across the kingdom.
Mirabeau declared the deputies were present by the "will of the nation" and would only leave when forcibly removed.
On June 24, soldiers meant to disperse the Assembly sided with them, showcasing popular support for the National Assembly.

Escalating Tensions in Paris

King Louis XVI deployed 1,800 troops to Paris, escalating tensions with the populace.
Mirabeau emerged as a leading agitator, advocating for the National Assembly.
Louis blamed Jacques Necker for the failure of the Royal Session, leading to Necker's dismissal, which further fueled public anger against the king.

Necker's Dismissal (July 11, 1789)

Necker was dismissed, inciting riots, looting, and public outcry in the streets.
The Third Estate rallied under cries for Necker's reinstatement and against the King’s actions.
Desmoulins, a prominent speaker, called for armed resistance to the monarchy, urging individuals to signify themselves as patriots by tearing leaves from trees.
The dismissal intensified revolutionary fervor, leading to organized protests and food riots in Paris.

Description

Explore the historical significance of the Tennis Court Oath taken on June 20, 1789, by the Third Estate deputies. This pivotal event laid the groundwork for the French Revolution and the establishment of a constitutional monarchy. Understand its implications for modern democracy and key figures involved.