French Rev Flashcards
Tradition
The passing down of culture from generation to generation. No social mobility, one couldn’t change their social class. Tradition ruled the relationship b/w the peasants and other classes.
Feudalism
Was the political system between the 5th Century and the 15th Century. The church had considerate influence over the peasants, often owned much of the land, and served as advisors to the government.
Peasants/ serfs
Few rights, paid taxes, no social mobility, and no influences in governing country.
Middle Ages
1400-1500’s.
People lived simple, agricultural lives, relationships were very important and little change in tradition and family.
Divine Right of Kings
Kings derives their authority from God, not from their subjects, therefore rebellion is the worst of political crimes.
Absolute monarch
King has absolute power against people.
How was Louis XIV involved in absolute monarchy/ divine rights of king?
The king ruled an absolute monarchy, and also had the beliefs of Devine rights of king while holding leadership, because none of his subjects were of use to him, he was the only decision maker.
The Enlightment
The spread of ideas about reason. It began with ideas being thought by the philosophers at the time, beginning in basements and scientific academies, then to salons, to coffee houses, ending in printed books and pamphlets. The ideas of the enlightenment undermined the church and monarchy.
John Locke
Optimistic view, believed people had natural rights. Believed people co-operate with one another. He thought that if a democracy happened that freedom would follow. Rulers could stay in power as long as they were voted in, had the consent. Government was responsible for protecting life rights. Ruler had limited power. People had the right to rebel of they believed their ruler was a tyrant.
Hobbes
People constantly fight among themselves, were chaotic, naturally seek conflict. Giver up their freedom for absolute rulership. Believed the best way of government was one ruler who had absolute power. Was to find a ruler who guaranteed peace. Believed with absolute power, no one could rebel. Even if they thought the ruler was a tyrant.
Montesquieu
Not everyone is evil, not everyone is good. Believed in a democracy, but with three branches of government: the legislature, executive, and judiciary. You could rise up against the government ( when applicable). Though you would need to go through the branches.
Voltaire
Argued for common sense, religious toleration, and freedom of thought. Thought the best ruler was an “enlightened monarch”. Meaning a monarch who studied the science of government and protected the basic rights of people.
Rousseau
People had the natural ability to be good, people were born good, it’s society that changes you. Wanted everyone to be equal to one another, get rid of the class system. Equal democracy, no monarchy/structure. Still need people to make sure everyone is equal. Never would there be a reason to rebel, everyone would be equal so there would be no need to rebel.
Ancient Regime
France used the feudal system politically/socially.
Characteristics:
- king is absolute monarch
- royal authority and rigid social structure
The old regime in France divided people into three classes.
Estates system- 1st estate
3 estates. Divided them into these three classes. 1st estate: clergy. -100 000 clergy - nobles (wealthy) - collected tithes Tithes- used for church administration. - owned 20% of all land in France - paid no taxes
2nd estate
- 400 000 nobles
- many well paid gov’t and church positions reserved for nobles.
- paid no taxes (except for some tithe)
- enjoyed great wealth/ privilege
3rd estate
- 23 000 000 people
- carried the burden of paying the most taxes.
- ## peasants had to lay ancient feudal dues
Bourgeoisie
- “wealthy”, educated 3rd estate.
- believed in enlightenment ideals, resented privileges of the nobles.
ie// Robespierre
Role of the enlightened bourgeoisie?
They brought forward the ideas to the 3rd estate, showing there knowledge in the subjects of the enlightenment. They fought for what they believed in, for their voices to be heard before the revolution began. The emergence of an influential bourgeoisie which was formally part of the Third Estate (commoners) but had evolved into a caste with its own agenda and aspired to political equality with the clergy (First estate)
Robespierre
Was a French politician and lawyer. Outspoken advocate in the face of the revolution.
George Danton
Was a leading figure in the early stages of the revolution. First president of the Committee of Public Safety.
JP Marat
Physician, radical political theorist, and scientist. Best known for his career as a radical journalist/ politician during the French rev. Journalism known for his fierce tone, uncompromising stance toward the new leaders and institutions of the revolution, and advocacy of basic human rights for the poorest members of society.
Role of food crisis in the rev?
Bad weather led to bad crops and not very much bread, therefore having to increase the price, making the whole country hungry. This led to men and women protesting and having the women of the Paris stampede the palace looking for the Queen. Blaming the king/ queen for eating all the food and the high prices. An important part for the pre-revolution.
Nationalism.
What is it and how did it play a role in the revolution.
The feeling that people have to be loyal to and proud of their country, often with the belief that is is better and more important in the revolution. It plays a role in the rev when the people cheer loudly in the executions and if u feel pity it is considered treason to your country, meaning u don’t support your country leading to (usually) your death as well.
