The Outbreak of the French Revolution

Study Notes

The Outbreak of the French Revolution

Louis XVI, king of France, faced an empty treasury and growing social unrest in 1774.
The Estates General, a political body representing the three estates (nobility, clergy, and commoners), was summoned in 1789 to address the tax crisis.
The Estates General's composition was unequal, with the Third Estate (commoners) significantly outnumbered by the First and Second Estates.
The Third Estate demanded a vote by head count, instead of the traditional vote by estate.
The Third Estate declared themselves the National Assembly and vowed to create a constitution.
This was done on June 20 in a tennis court, which became known as the Tennis Court Oath.
Key figures like Mirabeau and Abbé Sieyes played significant roles in the Third Estate's movement.
Mirabeau, born into a noble family, advocated for a more egalitarian society.
Abbé Sieyes was a philosopher who supported the National Assembly.
On May 5, 1789, the Estates General was convened in Versailles.

Important Dates

1774: Louis XVI ascends to the throne; France's treasury is empty, and social tensions are high.
1789: The Estates General is convened; the Third Estate declares itself the National Assembly; the storming of the Bastille (a royal prison) occurs.
1791: A French constitution is drafted limiting the monarch's powers.
1792-93: France becomes a republic, and the king is executed. The Jacobin republic is overthrown, and a Directory takes power.
1804: Napoleon becomes emperor of France, and annexes parts of Europe.
1815: Napoleon is defeated at Waterloo.

Description

Explore the significant events leading up to the French Revolution, including the role of Louis XVI and the Estates General. Understand the dynamics between the different estates and the formation of the National Assembly. This quiz covers key figures and pivotal moments that shaped the revolution.