The Estates General and Events in Paris 1789

Question 1

Why was there already controversy before the EG met?

Answer 1

People could not decide whether to vote by head (in which the Third Estate would win) or by order (in which the upper two Estates would win)

Question 2

What were the cahiers of each Estate?

Answer 2

1. Demanded an end to plurality and absenteeism, were ready to give up financial privileges, Protestantism was not to be tolerated
2. Ready to give up financial privileges, merit rather than birth should be the key to higher offices, attacked despotism and injustice
3. Against absolutist power and more power to the people

Question 3

Why were the deputies angry when they arrived at Versailles on 5th May 1789?

Answer 3

Louis had not prepared any reforms to be debated

Question 4

What did the Third Estate do on 17th June?

Answer 4

Declared themselves to be the national Assembly and to speak for the people
They were joined by deputies from the other two Estates

Question 5

What happened on 20th June?

Answer 5

Louis locked the National Assembly out of their meeting place, so they found a tennis court
The Tennis Court Oath was signed, declaring that they would not disband until they had given France a constitution

Question 6

What did Louis do on 22nd June in response to the Tennis Court Oath?

Answer 6

He ordered 4,000 troops to be stationed around Paris, which soon reached more than 20,000

Question 7

Why did the people of Paris attack the Bastille prison?

Answer 7

1. Necker, the popular minister, had just been sacked by Louis
2. It was a symbol of royal power in the heart of Paris

Question 8

Who was appointed commander of the National Guard?

Answer 8

Lafayette