French revolution Flashcards
What happened in France in 1789?
The French citizens overthrew the aristocracy and the monarchy. The King still helps in the government, but it is run by the people and is peaceful.
What happened in 1792 in France?
Bribery was still used in politics, and there were still some who wanted more out of the revolution. In 1792 it became violent, the Kings palace Tuileries was stormed in June, the Swiss Guards were massacred in August, the prisons were massacred and in January Louis the XVI was beheaded, painting the Revolution as being bloody and ruthless and all anarchy. In Britain there were rumours of cannibalism, public executions of wealthy families in the streets and ‘carnivorous rabble howling around’
Who was opposed to the French revolution?
Most MPs and King, didn’t want something similar in England
Who was for the French revolution?
Fox and co wanted the monarchy abolished and a more democratic system
What was Paine’s view on the Revolution?
He believed that it was an important step and helped create all men as equal.
He believed that France was going back to the original way of ruling, which was by the people.
He didn’t agree with positions base doff of birth, not talent, as it meant that anyone could be the King, even a ‘child or idiot’.
How did the change of events in 1792 affect Foxes reputation?
He was at first for the Revolution, and continued his support, even after the violence, which tarnished his reputation and showed his lack of loyalty to the king, making himself more enemies.
What was Paine’s book about?
He wrote a book called the ‘Rights of Man’ in response to Burkes criticism of the War. It was very popular and sold 200,00 copies in the cheap version. He argues the rights of man and the importance of the Revolution.
Were Paine’s and Fox’s opinion on the war popular or not?
Their opinion was unpopular, but was gaining popularity as Paine’s book was spread around, and more people talked about and thought about a revolt against the King to impose change for the government, which made the king and the aristocracy scared.
What was Burke’s view on the Revolution?
Burke wrote a book called ‘Reflections on the revolution in France’. He believed that at the heart of civil society lay religion and believed in paternalism, loyalty and the hereditary principle which was the foundation of the aristocracy and its traditional values. However, he believed that and state that didn’t change wouldn’t be able to sustain itself.
