French Revolution History: Origins, Napoleon, and Liberalism

Causes of the French Revolution

Taxation and the Third Estate

The Third Estate was the only estate that paid taxes, yet it could not afford to pay more. The privileged estates refused to pay them, and in 1789, the Estates-General were convoked by Louis XVI to change the system.

Harvest Failures

There were crop failures and severe winters in 1788 and 1789. The peasants and the urban poor were the main victims, affected by rising cereal prices, which left the Third Estate impoverished.

The American War of Independence

France was involved in the American War of Independence. While it resulted in a victory against Britain, it caused a new financial crisis due to the expenses of fighting abroad. The war significantly damaged the French economy.

French Revolution Q&A

• During what period did the French Revolution take place? 1789–1799
• What event signaled the start of the revolution? The storming of the Bastille.
• Who lived in Versailles at the start of the French Revolution? Louis XVI.
• What was the attack on a Paris prison by angry citizens called? The storming of the Bastille.
• What did the Tennis Court Oath promise? That the Third Estate/National Assembly would remain together until a constitution was written.
• What were members of the moderate republican political faction called? Girondists.
• What ideals most influenced the leaders of the French Revolution? Enlightenment.
• What was the Reign of Terror? A time when thousands of suspected traitors were executed.

Short Questions

• Why did the King convoke the Estates-General? The King convoked the Estates-General because it was the only institution that could change the taxation system.
• Who was the King of France when the revolution started? Louis XVI.
• What was the political regime established before the republic? Absolutism.
• What was the name of the radical republicans that wanted the death of the King? Jacobins.
• What was the name of the time when thousands of suspected traitors were executed? Reign of Terror.

Napoleon and Liberal Principles

Laws

The Napoleonic Code incorporated the main articles of the Declaration of the Rights of Man, such as the abolition of feudal obligations, equality before the law, and freedom of religion.

Religion

Religious freedom was guaranteed by Napoleon. Jews, Protestants, and Catholics could coexist in peace. The church was brought under state control.

Education

Napoleon favored a state system of secular education. The curriculum was determined by the state, not the church, ensuring all people could benefit from education.

Liberal Revolutions of 1830 and 1848