The French Revolution: Causes and Key Events
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Questions and Answers

Which of the following best describes the composition of the Third Estate in pre-revolutionary France?

  • Made up of only wealthy merchants and traders.
  • Included the vast majority of the population, such as peasants and commoners. (correct)
  • Primarily consisted of the nobility and landowners.
  • Exclusively comprised of members of the clergy.

How did the heavy taxation affect the French people before the revolution?

  • It fostered dissatisfaction and demands for reforms, particularly among the common people. (correct)
  • It only affected the nobility and clergy, who were the primary taxpayers.
  • It led to increased support for the monarchy among all social classes.
  • It resulted in economic prosperity and stability for all citizens.

Why was the Estates General convened by King Louis XVI in 1789?

  • To celebrate the success of the French monarchy and reinforce its power.
  • To suppress dissent and consolidate absolute rule.
  • To address the escalating economic crisis in France. (correct)
  • To plan military campaigns against neighboring countries.

What was the primary reason for the execution of King Louis XVI during the French Revolution?

<p>His attempt to flee the country and regain power, which was seen as treason. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a significant difference in living conditions between the estates before the French Revolution?

<p>The nobility and clergy enjoyed privileges and exemptions from taxation, while the common people faced heavy financial burdens and social inequality. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did the French Revolution impact the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte?

<p>The revolution created a power vacuum and opportunities for military leaders like Napoleon to seize control. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which concept became central to France's national identity following the French Revolution?

<p>Liberty, equality, and fraternity. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the Reign of Terror and which group was responsible for it?

<p>A violent period instituted by the Jacobins during the National convention. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Three Estates

The three social groups in pre-revolutionary France: clergy, nobility, and commoners.

Taille

A land tax imposed on the common people in France before the revolution.

Estates General

A representative body in France that included delegates from all three estates.

Reign of Terror

A violent period led by the Jacobins during the French Revolution to eliminate opposition.

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Execution of King Louis XVI

King Louis XVI was executed for treason by the National Assembly in 1793.

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Social Inequality

Disparities in wealth and privilege between the estates in pre-revolutionary France.

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Liberty, Equality, Fraternity

Principles that became central to France's identity post-revolution.

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Napoleon Bonaparte

A leader who rose to power after the French Revolution, establishing a new order in France.

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Study Notes

The French Revolution: Causes, Events, and Consequences

  • The French Revolution was a period of major political and social change in France. It led to great challenges to the existing order, striving for a more just society.
  • French society was divided into three estates:
    • The First Estate: Clergy (Church members)
    • The Second Estate: Nobility
    • The Third Estate: Peasants and commoners (vast majority)
  • Taxation and Unrest: Heavy taxation, especially the "taille" (land tax), burdened the Third Estate, fueling discontent.
  • The Estates General: A representative body, convened in 1789 by King Louis XVI, to address the economic crisis. This was a group encompassing all estates.
  • Causes of Revolution:
    • Bad Harvests and Rising Prices: Led to widespread hardship and food shortages.
    • Desire for Social Change: The Third Estate demanded equality and an end to the privileges of the nobility and clergy.
  • Events of the French Revolution: (details are on page 2)

The Reign of Terror

  • The Jacobins, a radical group, seized power during the National Convention and initiated the Reign of Terror.
  • Execution of King Louis XVI: King Louis XVI was executed in January 1793 for treason.
  • Living Conditions Before the Revolution: Significant disparities existed between the estates. The nobility and clergy had privileges, while the common people faced heavy financial burdens, leading to significant social inequality.
  • Consequences of the Revolution:
    • Rise of Napoleon Bonaparte
    • Abolition of the monarchy
    • Establishment of the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity as central to French identity.
    • Reshaped political and social landscapes globally.

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Explore the French Revolution, a transformative period in French history, marked by political and social upheaval. Discover the causes, including social inequalities, economic hardships, and the desire for change among the Third Estate. Learn about key events.

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