The American Revolution and French revolution 1789 Flashcards
What was the impact of the American revolution on Britain?
Proved political reform was obtainable, and that principles of democracy could be established in a written constitution. American government based on consent (no hereditary passage of titles), without restriction of political rights (universal suffrage, no property qualification for office). This made more question the “injustice” of paying taxes without having the vote, and rule by a monarch / aristocratic-dominated parliament.
What was the initial impact of the French revolution of the French revolution on GB?
It inspired radicals in Britain that change was possible. It also showed reform could be achieved by mounting popular. In some this stimulated enthusiasm for reform e.g. the enthusiastic reception the fall of the Bastille produced in such politicians as Fox.
Why did this change as the French revolution progressed?
The bloodshed of the terror from 1793 onwards - guillotining the aristocracy and the King/Queen, massacres of revolutions enemies (inc. priests and peasants) allowed those opposed to reform to portray changes as dangerous. Britain at war v. France in 1793 so radical activity = unpatriotic.
