Questions and Answers
What was the basis of the divisions among the three estates under the Old Regime?
What does the separation of powers prevent?
It prevents one branch from gaining too much power.
What was the intent of the National Assembly after breaking off from the Estates-General?
What action made Louis XVI such an unpopular ruler?
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How did French support of the American Revolution increase problems for King Louis XVI?
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Which philosopher believed in the separation of church and state?
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What did the French government do to address the financial crisis during an era of bad harvests?
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What does the storming of the Bastille represent in French history?
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What do the Declaration of Independence and the Declaration of the Rights of Man have in common?
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Why did the Third Estate form the National Assembly?
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Study Notes
The Old Regime and Social Structures
- France was divided into three estates based on social class, which determined one's occupation, wealth, and privileges.
Philosophical Foundations of Government
- Montesquieu advocated for the separation of powers within government to prevent one branch from becoming too powerful, promoting liberty and justice.
The National Assembly's Orientation
- The National Assembly aimed to achieve genuine government reform after breaking away from the Estates-General.
Louis XVI's Unpopularity
- King Louis XVI became unpopular mainly due to his lack of support for government reform, which fueled public dissatisfaction.
Influences of the American Revolution
- France's support for the American Revolution worsened its economic crisis, highlighting the unsustainability of monarchies and rigid class structures.
Enlightenment Philosophers
- Voltaire was a key proponent of the separation of church and state, questioning the power of the clergy amidst the prevailing social issues.
Government Responses to Economic Crisis
- In response to severe famine and rioting, the French government raised taxes, exacerbating public grievances during the financial crisis.
The Storming of the Bastille
- The storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, became a symbol of liberty in France, reflecting the people's anger towards failed reforms.
Similarities Between Declarations
- The Declaration of Independence and the Declaration of the Rights of Man both asserted that individuals should enjoy liberty and that governments must be accountable to the people.
Formation of the National Assembly
- The Third Estate formed the National Assembly with the goal of benefiting ordinary citizens and addressing pressing social and economic issues.
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Description
Test your knowledge on the key concepts of the French Revolution with this practice quiz. Explore topics such as social class divisions and the philosophies of Montesquieu and their impact on government structure.
