French Revolution Flashcards
What event marked the calling of the Estates General in May 1789?
The Estates General was convened on May 5, 1789, to address financial issues and grievances from all estates.
What was the Tennis Court Oath, and why was it significant?
The Tennis Court Oath, taken on June 20, 1789, was a pledge by the Third Estate to not disband until a constitution was established, asserting their claim to represent the nation.
What triggered the Storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789?
The Storming of the Bastille was triggered by Louis XVI’s military mobilization and the dismissal of Necker, symbolizing the uprising against tyranny and royal authority.
What were the main actions and outcomes of the Great Fear during Summer 1789?
The Great Fear was a period of rural unrest in Summer 1789 where peasants attacked noble estates, leading to the National Assembly’s declaration that all people were equal.
What did the Declaration of the Rights of Man, established in August 1789, entail?
The Declaration of the Rights of Man declared inalienable rights such as liberty, property, and safety, and established that sovereignty lies with the nation, not the king.
What was the Women’s March on Versailles in October 1789?
The Women’s March on Versailles involved angry women marching to demand bread and the king’s presence in Paris, resulting in the royal family being taken back to the city.
What occurred during the Flight to Varennes in July 1791?
During the Flight to Varennes, Louis XVI attempted to escape to Austria but was captured, undermining his authority and leading to his increased unpopularity.
What did the Brunswick Manifesto of July 1792 threaten?
The Brunswick Manifesto warned that if the royal family was harmed, the French would face severe consequences from Austria and Prussia, escalating the conflict.
What happened at the National Convention in September 1792?
The National Convention abolished the monarchy and declared France a republic, facing immense pressure from internal and external threats.
What were the circumstances leading to the execution of Louis XVI in January 1793?
Louis XVI was executed for treason on January 21, 1793, marking a pivotal moment in the revolution and the end of the traditional monarchy.
What characterized the Reign of Terror from 1793-1794?
The Reign of Terror involved mass executions, with approximately 10-12,000 people killed under the leadership of the Jacobins and Robespierre’s radical policies.
What was the role of the Committee of Public Safety during the Reign of Terror?
The Committee of Public Safety was created to oversee the government during the crises of the Revolution and wielded dictatorial powers to suppress dissent.
What led to the Thermidorian Reaction and the fall of Robespierre?
The Thermidorian Reaction was a backlash against the radical Jacobins, leading to the arrest and execution of Robespierre in July 1794, ending the Reign of Terror.
What was the structure of the Directory from 1795-1799?
The Directory was a five-member executive body that governed France from 1795 to 1799, characterized by instability and corruption, with limited democratic participation.
What were the long-term effects of the French Revolution, particularly regarding nationalism, liberalism, and conservatism?
The long-term effects included the rise of nationalism as revolutionary ideas spread, the influence of liberalism promoting individual rights, and conservative backlash from monarchies trying to maintain power.
