Introduction
• • TheFrench Revolution began in 1789.
• • Marked the end of monarchy and rise of
democracy.
• • Inspired by ideas of liberty, equality,
fraternity.
• • Changed social and political structure of
France.
3.
French Society inthe 18th Century
• • Divided into three estates:
• 1. First Estate – Clergy
• 2. Second Estate – Nobility
• 3. Third Estate – Commoners (peasants,
workers, bourgeoisie)
• • First and Second Estates enjoyed privileges,
Third Estate paid taxes.
4.
Causes of theRevolution
• • Social inequality between estates.
• • Economic crisis due to wars and lavish court
expenditure.
• • Increase in bread prices and famine.
• • Influence of Enlightenment thinkers like
Rousseau, Voltaire.
• • Inspiration from the American Revolution.
5.
Outbreak of theRevolution
• • Louis XVI called Estates-General meeting in
May 1789.
• • Third Estate declared itself National
Assembly.
• • Tennis Court Oath – pledged to draft a
constitution.
• • Storming of the Bastille on 14 July 1789
symbolized revolt.
6.
The National Assembly
•• Abolished feudal privileges.
• • Drafted the Declaration of the Rights of Man
and Citizen.
• • Guaranteed freedom, equality before law,
and rights to property.
7.
France Becomes aRepublic
• • Monarchy abolished in 1792.
• • Louis XVI executed in January 1793.
• • Reign of Terror under Robespierre – harsh
measures to protect revolution.
• • Robespierre executed in 1794, leading to
moderate government.
8.
The Rise ofNapoleon
• • In 1799, Napoleon Bonaparte took power.
• • Introduced reforms – Napoleonic Code
ensured equality before law.
• • Expanded French empire but was eventually
defeated.
9.
Impact of theRevolution
• • Spread of democratic ideals across Europe.
• • End of feudalism in France.
• • Inspired other revolutions worldwide.
• • Promoted nationalism and individual rights.
10.
Summary
• • TheFrench Revolution transformed France
politically, socially, and economically.
• • Inspired global movements for liberty,
equality, and fraternity.
• • Marked the birth of modern democracy in
Europe.
