Women's March on Versailles Flashcards
when was it
October 5-6, 1789
location
From Paris to the Palace of Versailles, about 20 km away.
why did it happen
bread shortages, economic hardship, economic hardship, discontent with the king, symbol of the monarchy’s excess
bread shortages
Widespread famine in France led to severe bread shortages, making food (especially bread) expensive and scarce for common people.
economic hardship
Many working-class women (and their families) were struggling to survive due to high food prices and poor living conditions in Paris.
discontent with the king
People were frustrated with King Louis XVI and the royal family living in luxury while they suffered. There were also concerns that the king was resistant to the reforms suggested by the National Assembly.
symbol of the monarchy’s excess
The Palace of Versailles was seen as a symbol of royal excess, and the royal family was perceived as being out of touch with the struggles of the common people.
who led the march
- The march was mostly led by women, many of whom were market women from Paris. They were often described as “fishwives,” a term used for women who worked at the fish markets.
role of the crowd
- : While women led the march, it was also joined by other angry Parisians, including men and even some revolutionary soldiers.
what happened
initial protest, march to Versailles, confrontation at Versailles, King’s response, Royal family brought to Paris
initial protest
The march began in response to the shortages and high prices of bread, with women in Paris gathering outside the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall) and demanding action.
march to Versailles
Thousands of people (mostly women, but some men too) marched to Versailles, demanding the king take action and provide bread and food for the people.
confrontation at Versailles
Upon arrival at Versailles, the protesters were met by royal guards. They demanded to speak with King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette.
the king’s response
The king promised to provide food and ordered the royal stores to be opened. However, this did not calm the crowd.
The Royal Family Brought to Paris
The crowd eventually forced the royal family to return with them to Paris, symbolically bringing the king and queen under the control of the people. This marked a turning point in the revolution, as the monarchy’s power was significantly reduced.
what was the impact
loss of royal power, increased tensions, women in the revolution, symbol of revolutionary change
loss of royal power
The royal family was moved from the opulence of Versailles to the Tuileries Palace in Paris. The move symbolized the shift of power to the people and was a major victory for the revolutionaries.
increased tensions
The march escalated tensions between the king and the revolutionaries. It made it clear that the monarchy was no longer untouchable and was vulnerable to public pressure.
women in the revolution
The march highlighted the role of women in the revolution. They were central to protests and played an active part in the revolutionary movement
