causes of the french revolution assignment

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French Revolution: History, Timeline, Causes, and Outcomes

The French Revolution, a seismic event that reshaped the contours of political power and societal norms, began in 1789, not merely as a chapter in history but as a dramatic upheaval that would influence the course of human events far beyond its own time and borders.

It was more than a clash of ideologies; it was a profound transformation that questioned the very foundations of monarchical rule and aristocratic privilege, leading to the rise of republicanism and the concept of citizenship.

The causes of this revolution were as complex as its outcomes were far-reaching, stemming from a confluence of economic strife, social inequalities, and a hunger for political reform.

The outcomes of the French Revolution, embedded in the realms of political thought, civil rights, and societal structures, continue to resonate, offering invaluable insights into the power and potential of collective action for change.

Table of Contents

Time and Location

The French Revolution, a cornerstone event in the annals of history, ignited in 1789, a time when Europe was dominated by monarchical rule and the vestiges of feudalism. This epochal period, which spanned a decade until the late 1790s, witnessed profound social, political, and economic transformations that not only reshaped France but also sent shockwaves across the continent and beyond.

Paris, the heart of France, served as the epicenter of revolutionary activity , where iconic events such as the storming of the Bastille became symbols of the struggle for freedom. Yet, the revolution was not confined to the city’s limits; its influence permeated through every corner of France, from bustling urban centers to serene rural areas, each witnessing the unfolding drama of revolution in unique ways.

The revolution consisted of many complex factions, each representing a distinct set of interests and ideologies. Initially, the conflict arose between the Third Estate, which included a diverse group from peasants and urban laborers to the bourgeoisie, and the First and Second Estates, made up of the clergy and the nobility, respectively.

The Third Estate sought to dismantle the archaic social structure that relegated them to the burden of taxation while denying them political representation and rights. Their demands for reform and equality found resonance across a society strained by economic distress and the autocratic rule of the monarchy.

As the revolution evolved, so too did the nature of the conflict. The initial unity within the Third Estate fractured, giving rise to factions such as the Jacobins and Girondins, who, despite sharing a common revolutionary zeal, diverged sharply in their visions for France’s future.

The Jacobins , with figures like Maximilien Robespierre at the helm, advocated for radical measures, including the abolition of the monarchy and the establishment of a republic, while the Girondins favored a more moderate approach.

The sans-culottes , representing the militant working-class Parisians, further complicated the revolutionary landscape with their demands for immediate economic relief and political reforms.

The revolution’s adversaries were not limited to internal factions; monarchies throughout Europe viewed the republic with suspicion and hostility. Fearing the spread of revolutionary fervor within their own borders, European powers such as Austria, Prussia, and Britain engaged in military confrontations with France, aiming to restore the French monarchy and stem the tide of revolution.

These external threats intensified the internal strife, fueling the revolution’s radical phase and propelling it towards its eventual conclusion with the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte, who capitalized on the chaos to establish his own rule.

READ MORE: How Did Napoleon Die: Stomach Cancer, Poison, or Something Else?

Causes of the French Revolution

The French Revolution’s roots are deeply embedded in a confluence of political, social, economic, and intellectual factors that, over time, eroded the foundations of the Ancien Régime and set the stage for revolutionary change.

At the heart of the revolution were grievances that transcended class boundaries, uniting much of the nation in a quest for profound transformation.

Economic Hardship and Social Inequality

A critical catalyst for the revolution was France’s dire economic condition. Fiscal mismanagement, costly involvement in foreign wars (notably the American Revolutionary War), and an antiquated tax system placed an unbearable strain on the populace, particularly the Third Estate, which bore the brunt of taxation while being denied equitable representation.

Simultaneously, extravagant spending by Louis XVI and his predecessors further drained the national treasury, exacerbating the financial crisis.

The social structure of France, rigidly divided into three estates, underscored profound inequalities. The First (clergy) and Second (nobility) Estates enjoyed significant privileges, including exemption from many taxes, which contrasted starkly with the hardships faced by the Third Estate, comprising peasants , urban workers, and a rising bourgeoisie.

This disparity fueled resentment and a growing demand for social and economic justice.

Enlightenment Ideals

The Enlightenment , a powerful intellectual movement sweeping through Europe, profoundly influenced the revolutionary spirit. Philosophers such as Voltaire, Rousseau, and Montesquieu criticized traditional structures of power and authority, advocating for principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity.

Their writings inspired a new way of thinking about governance, society, and the rights of individuals, sowing the seeds of revolution among a populace eager for change.

Political Crisis and the Estates-General

The immediate catalyst for the French Revolution was deeply rooted in a political crisis, underscored by the French monarchy’s chronic financial woes. King Louis XVI, facing dire fiscal insolvency, sought to break the deadlock through the convocation of the Estates-General in 1789, marking the first assembly of its kind since 1614.

This critical move, intended to garner support for financial reforms, unwittingly set the stage for widespread political upheaval. It provided the Third Estate, representing the common people of France, with an unprecedented opportunity to voice their longstanding grievances and demand a more significant share of political authority.

The Third Estate, comprising a vast majority of the population but long marginalized in the political framework of the Ancien Régime, seized this moment to assert its power. Their transformation into the National Assembly was a monumental shift, symbolizing a rejection of the existing social and political order.

The catalyst for this transformation was their exclusion from the Estates-General meeting, leading them to gather in a nearby tennis court. There, they took the historic Tennis Court Oath, vowing not to disperse until France had a new constitution.

This act of defiance was not just a political statement but a clear indication of the revolutionaries’ resolve to overhaul French society.

Amidst this burgeoning crisis, the personal life of Marie Antoinette , Louis XVI’s queen, became a focal point of public scrutiny and scandal. 

Married to Louis at the tender age of fourteen, Marie Antoinette, the youngest daughter of Holy Roman Emperor Francis I, was known for her lavish lifestyle and the preferential treatment she accorded her friends and relatives.

READ MORE: Roman Emperors in Order: The Complete List from Caesar to the Fall of Rome

Her disregard for traditional court fashion and etiquette, along with her perceived extravagance, made her an easy target for public criticism and ridicule. Popular songs in Parisian cafés and a flourishing genre of pornographic literature vilified the queen, accusing her of infidelity, corruption, and disloyalty.

Such depictions, whether grounded in truth or fabricated, fueled the growing discontent among the populace, further complicating the already tense political atmosphere.

The intertwining of personal scandals with the broader political crisis highlighted the deep-seated issues within the French monarchy and aristocracy, contributing to the revolutionary fervor.

As the political crisis deepened, the actions of the Third Estate and the controversies surrounding Marie Antoinette exemplified the widespread desire for change and the rejection of the Ancient Régime’s corruption and excesses.

Key Concepts, Events, and People of the French Revolution

As the Estates General convened in 1789, little did the world know that this gathering would mark the beginning of a revolution that would forever alter the course of history.

Through the rise and fall of factions, the clash of ideologies, and the leadership of remarkable individuals, this era reshaped not only France but also set a precedent for future generations.

From the storming of the Bastille to the establishment of the Directory, each event and figure played a crucial role in crafting a new vision of governance and social equality.

Estates General

When the Estates General was summoned in May 1789, it marked the beginning of a series of events that would catalyze the French Revolution. Initially intended as a means for King Louis XVI to address the financial crisis by securing support for tax reforms, the assembly instead became a flashpoint for broader grievances.

Representing the three estates of French society—the clergy, the nobility, and the commoners—the Estates General highlighted the profound disparities and simmering tensions between these groups.

The Third Estate, comprising 98% of the population but traditionally having the least power, seized the moment to push for more significant reforms, challenging the very foundations of the Ancient Régime.

The deadlock over voting procedures—where the Third Estate demanded votes be counted by head rather than by estate—led to its members declaring themselves the National Assembly, an act of defiance that effectively inaugurated the revolution.

This bold step, coupled with the subsequent Tennis Court Oath where they vowed not to disperse until a new constitution was created, underscored a fundamental shift in authority from the monarchy to the people, setting a precedent for popular sovereignty that would resonate throughout the revolution.

Rise of the Third Estate

The Rise of the Third Estate underscores the growing power and assertiveness of the common people of France. Fueled by economic hardship, social inequality, and inspired by Enlightenment ideals, this diverse group—encompassing peasants, urban workers, and the bourgeoisie—began to challenge the existing social and political order.

Their transformation from a marginalized majority into the National Assembly marked a radical departure from traditional power structures, asserting their role as legitimate representatives of the French people. This period was characterized by significant political mobilization and the formation of popular societies and clubs, which played a crucial role in spreading revolutionary ideas and organizing action.

This newfound empowerment of the Third Estate culminated in key revolutionary acts, such as the storming of the Bastille in July 1789, a symbol of royal tyranny. This event not only demonstrated the power of popular action but also signaled the irreversible nature of the revolutionary movement.

The rise of the Third Estate paved the way for the abolition of feudal privileges and the drafting of the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen , foundational texts that sought to establish a new social and political order based on equality, liberty, and fraternity.

A People’s Monarchy

The concept of a People’s Monarchy emerged as a compromise in the early stages of the French Revolution, reflecting the initial desire among many revolutionaries to retain the monarchy within a constitutional framework.

This period was marked by King Louis XVI’s grudging acceptance of the National Assembly’s authority and the enactment of significant reforms, including the Civil Constitution of the Clergy and the Constitution of 1791, which established a limited monarchy and sought to redistribute power more equitably.

However, this attempt to balance revolutionary demands with monarchical tradition was fraught with difficulties, as mutual distrust between the king and the revolutionaries continued to escalate.

The failure of the People’s Monarchy was precipitated by the Flight to Varennes in June 1791, when Louis XVI attempted to escape France and rally foreign support for the restoration of his absolute power.

This act of betrayal eroded any remaining support for the monarchy among the populace and the Assembly, leading to increased calls for the establishment of a republic.

The people’s experiment with a constitutional monarchy thus served to highlight the irreconcilable differences between the revolutionary ideals of liberty and equality and the traditional monarchical order, setting the stage for the republic’s proclamation.

Birth of a Republic

The proclamation of the First French Republic in September 1792 represented a radical departure from centuries of monarchical rule, embodying the revolutionary ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity.

This transition was catalyzed by escalating political tensions, military challenges, and the radicalization of the revolution, particularly after the king’s failed flight and perceived betrayal.

The Republic’s birth was a moment of immense optimism and aspiration, as it promised to reshape French society on the principles of democratic governance and civic equality. It also marked the beginning of a new calendar, symbolic of the revolutionaries’ desire to break completely with the past and start anew.

However, the early years of the Republic were marked by significant challenges, including internal divisions, economic struggles, and threats from monarchist powers in Europe.

These pressures necessitated the establishment of the Committee of Public Safety and the Reign of Terror, measures aimed at defending the revolution but which also led to extreme political repression.

Reign of Terror

The Reign of Terror, from September 1793 to July 1794, remains one of the most controversial and bloodiest periods of the French Revolution. Under the auspices of the Committee of Public Safety, led by figures such as Maximilien Robespierre, the French government adopted radical measures to purge the nation of perceived enemies of the revolution.

This period saw the widespread use of the guillotine , with thousands executed on charges of counter-revolutionary activities or mere suspicion of disloyalty. The Terror aimed to consolidate revolutionary gains and protect the nascent Republic from internal and external threats, but its legacy is marred by the extremity of its actions and the climate of fear it engendered.

The end of the Terror came with the Thermidorian Reaction on 27th July 1794 (9th Thermidor Year II, according to the revolutionary calendar), which resulted in the arrest and execution of Robespierre and his closest allies.

This marked a significant turning point, leading to the dismantling of the Committee of Public Safety and the gradual relaxation of emergency measures. The aftermath of the Terror reflected a society grappling with the consequences of its radical actions, seeking stability after years of upheaval but still committed to the revolutionary ideals of liberty and equality .

Thermidorians and the Directory

Following the Thermidorian Reaction , the political landscape of France underwent significant changes, leading to the establishment of the Directory in November 1795.

This new government, a five-member executive body, was intended to provide stability and moderate the excesses of the previous radical phase. The Directory period was characterized by a mix of conservative and revolutionary policies, aimed at consolidating the Republic and addressing the economic and social issues that had fueled the revolution.

Despite its efforts to navigate the challenges of governance, the Directory faced significant opposition from royalists on the right and Jacobins on the left, leading to a period of political instability and corruption.

The Directory’s inability to resolve these tensions and its growing unpopularity set the stage for its downfall. The coup of 18 Brumaire in November 1799, led by Napoleon Bonaparte, ended the Directory and established the Consulate, marking the end of the revolutionary government and the beginning of Napoleonic rule.

While the Directory failed to achieve lasting stability, it played a crucial role in the transition from radical revolution to the establishment of a more authoritarian regime, highlighting the complexities of revolutionary governance and the challenges of fulfilling the ideals of 1789.

French Revolution End and Outcome: Napoleon’s Rise

The revolution’s end is often marked by Napoleon’s coup d’état on 18 Brumaire , which not only concluded a decade of political instability and social unrest but also ushered in a new era of governance under his rule.

This period, while stabilizing France and bringing much-needed order, seemed to contradict the revolution’s initial aims of establishing a democratic republic grounded in the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity.

Napoleon’s rise to power, culminating in his coronation as Emperor, symbolizes a complex conclusion to the revolutionary narrative, intertwining the fulfillment and betrayal of its foundational ideals.

Evaluating the revolution’s success requires a nuanced perspective. On one hand, it dismantled the Ancien Régime, abolished feudalism, and set forth the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, laying the cornerstone for modern democracy and human rights. 

These achievements signify profound societal and legal transformations that resonated well beyond France’s borders, influencing subsequent movements for freedom and equality globally.

On the other hand, the revolution’s trajectory through the Reign of Terror and the subsequent rise of a military dictatorship under Napoleon raises questions about the cost of these advances and the ultimate realization of the revolution’s goals.

The French Revolution’s conclusion with Napoleon Bonaparte’s ascension to power is emblematic of its complex legacy. This period not only marked the cessation of years of turmoil but also initiated a new chapter in French governance, characterized by stability and reform yet marked by a departure from the revolution’s original democratic aspirations.

The Significance of the French Revolution

The French Revolution holds a place of prominence in the annals of history, celebrated for its profound impact on the course of modern civilization. Its fame stems not only from the dramatic events and transformative ideas it unleashed but also from its enduring influence on political thought, social reform, and the global struggle for justice and equality.

This period of intense upheaval and radical change challenged the very foundations of society, dismantling centuries-old institutions and laying the groundwork for a new era defined by the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity.

At its core, the French Revolution was a manifestation of human aspiration towards freedom and self-determination, a vivid illustration of the power of collective action to reshape the world. It introduced revolutionary concepts of citizenship and rights that have since become the bedrock of democratic societies.

Moreover, the revolution’s ripple effects were felt worldwide, inspiring a wave of independence movements and revolutions across Europe, Latin America, and beyond. Its legacy is a testament to the idea that people have the power to overthrow oppressive systems and construct a more equitable society.

The revolution’s significance also lies in its contributions to political and social thought. It was a living laboratory for ideas that were radical at the time, such as the separation of church and state, the abolition of feudal privileges, and the establishment of a constitution to govern the rights and duties of the French citizens.

These concepts, debated and implemented with varying degrees of success during the revolution, have become fundamental to modern governance.

Furthermore, the French Revolution is famous for its dramatic and symbolic events, from the storming of the Bastille to the Reign of Terror, which have etched themselves into the collective memory of humanity.

These events highlight the complexities and contradictions of the revolutionary process, underscoring the challenges inherent in profound societal transformation.

Key Figures of the French Revolution

The French Revolutions were painted by the actions and ideologies of several key figures whose contributions defined the era. These individuals, with their diverse roles and perspectives, were central in navigating the revolution’s trajectory, capturing the complexities and contradictions of this tumultuous period.

Maximilien Robespierre , often synonymous with the Reign of Terror, was a figure of paradoxes. A lawyer and politician, his early advocacy for the rights of the common people and opposition to absolute monarchy marked him as a champion of liberty.

However, as a leader of the Committee of Public Safety, his name became associated with the radical phase of the revolution, characterized by extreme measures in the name of safeguarding the republic. His eventual downfall and execution reflect the revolution’s capacity for self-consumption.

Georges Danton , another prominent revolutionary leader, played a crucial role in the early stages of the revolution. Known for his oratory skills and charismatic leadership, Danton was instrumental in the overthrow of the monarchy and the establishment of the First French Republic.

Unlike Robespierre, Danton is often remembered for his pragmatism and efforts to moderate the revolution’s excesses, which ultimately led to his execution during the Reign of Terror, highlighting the volatile nature of revolutionary politics.

Louis XVI, the king at the revolution’s outbreak, represents the Ancient Régime’s complexities and the challenges of monarchical rule in a time of profound societal change.

His inability to effectively manage France’s financial crisis and his hesitancy to embrace substantial reforms contributed to the revolutionary fervor. His execution in 1793 symbolized the revolution’s radical break from monarchical tradition and the birth of the republic.

Marie Antoinette, the queen consort of Louis XVI, became a symbol of the monarchy’s extravagance and disconnect from the common people. Her fate, like that of her husband, underscores the revolution’s rejection of the old order and the desire for a new societal structure based on equality and merit rather than birthright.

Jean-Paul Marat , a journalist and politician, used his publication, L’Ami du Peuple, to advocate for the rights of the lower classes and to call for radical measures against the revolution’s enemies.

His assassination by Charlotte Corday, a Girondin sympathizer, in 1793 became one of the revolution’s most famous episodes, illustrating the deep divisions within revolutionary France.

Finally, Napoleon Bonaparte, though not a leader during the revolution’s peak, emerged from its aftermath to shape France’s future. A military genius, Napoleon used the opportunities presented by the revolution’s chaos to rise to power, eventually declaring himself Emperor of the French.

His reign would consolidate many of the revolution’s reforms while curtailing its democratic aspirations, embodying the complexities of the revolution’s legacy.

These key figures, among others, played significant roles in the unfolding of the French Revolution. Their contributions, whether for the cause of liberty, the maintenance of order, or the pursuit of personal power, highlight the multifaceted nature of the revolution and its enduring impact on history.

References:

(1) Schama, Simon. Citizens: a Chronicle of the French Revolution. New York, Random House, 1990, pp. 119-221.

(2) Doyle, William. Oxford History of the French Revolution. Oxford University Press, 1989, pp. 11-12

(3) Hobsbawm, Eric. The Age of Revolution. Vintage Books, 1996, pp. 56-57.

(4) Doyle, William. Oxford History of the French Revolution. Oxford University Press, 1989, pp. 24-25

(5) Lewis, Gwynne. The French Revolution: Rethinking the Debate. Routledge, 2016, pp. 12-14.

(6) Doyle, William. Oxford History of the French Revolution. Oxford University Press, 1989, pp. 14-25

(7) Doyle, William. Oxford History of the French Revolution. Oxford University Press, 1989, pp. 63-65.

(8) Schama, Simon. Citizens: a Chronicle of the French Revolution. New York, Random House, 1990, pp. 242-244.

(9) Doyle, William. Oxford History of the French Revolution. Oxford University Press, 1989, pp. 74.

(10) Doyle, William. Oxford History of the French Revolution. Oxford University Press, 1989, pp. 82 – 84.

(11) Lewis, Gwynne. The French Revolution: Rethinking the Debate. Routledge, 2016, p. 20.

(12) Hampson, Norman. A Social History of the French Revolution. University of Toronto Press, 1968, pp. 60-61.

(13) https://pages.uoregon.edu/dluebke/301ModernEurope/Sieyes3dEstate.pdf (14) Doyle, William. Oxford History of the French Revolution. Oxford University Press, 1989, pp. 104-105.

(15) French Revolution. “A Citizen Recalls the Taking of the Bastille (1789),” January 11, 2013. https://alphahistory.com/frenchrevolution/humbert-taking-of-the-bastille-1789/.

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(17) Hazan, Eric. A People’s History of the French Revolution, Verso, 2014, pp. 36-37.

(18) Lefebvre, Georges. The French Revolution: From its origins to 1793. Routledge, 1957, pp. 121-122.

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(20) Hampson, Norman. A Social History of the French Revolution. University of Toronto Press, 1968, p. 80.

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(26) Schama, Simon. Citizens: A Chronicle of the French Revolution. Random House, 1989, pp. 524-525.

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The Ultimate 10-Day Plan for Teaching the French Revolution: Causes, Stages, and Impact

Hello, fellow social studies teachers! I’m excited to share with you my 10-day plan for teaching the French Revolution. There are a few units in world history that are really hard to teach in a short period of time. The French Revolution is definitely one of those units. As you know, it can easily be a full semester course (maybe you took it in college). 

In New York, this unit is taught in the fall semester of 10th grade. In a perfect world 9th grade teachers would get to it as the last unit but that almost never happens. My pacing guide for sophomore year starts with a review of the Scientific Revolution and Enlightenment Era and that leads us into the French Revolution. 

Grab a copy of my global history pacing guide. It’s free!

In this plan, I’ll cover all the essential topics and include a review and assessment in two weeks’ time. This is meant to be a guide that – of course – you can change to fit your teaching style and students’ needs. 

Most teachers have a framework for their lessons. Here’s mine:

Do Now: 5-minute activity that reviews old content or introduces the new. (I like to offer 2 questions and student choose which to answer)

Mini-Lecture: This is when I get to talk. I use a few slides, and sometimes a short video, to explain the historical background of the day’s content

Activity: This is independent, pair/share or group work where students engage with the content and work on their skills (reading, writing, document analysis, maps, etc)

Conclusion: This is the culminating question or class discussion that sums up the lesson and checks for understanding.

Let’s get started!

Day 1: Causes of the Revolution (Scaffolded Group Work)

On the first day, I  use scaffolded group work to help students understand the various factors that led to the French Revolution. Students will work in groups of 4, each analyzing a different document about a cause of the revolution. 

The students take turns sharing their documents and discuss how the event or topic could lead to a revolution. They use the discussion to fill out their graphic organizer. 

The lesson concludes with students using what they learned to write a paragraph describing the historical background of the revolution.

Day 2: Stages of the Revolution (Timeline) 

On the second day, we will create a timeline of the key events of the French Revolution . This will help students understand the chronology of the revolution. 

This lesson is more teacher-driven than most. Slides and a lecture describe the various stages of the revolution. Many students really need the teacher to explain events concisely and simply (even though some admin I’ve worked with does not agree).

I can still remember learning about the French Revolution and being confused:

“The French had a revolution to end absolute rule. But then Napoleon comes along and crowns himself king. Does that mean the revolution failed? When exactly did it start? And when did it end?”

 Sometimes a teacher’s gotta teach.

After students fill in their timeline the questions check for understanding.

Day 3: Revolution Begins (Political Cartoon Analysis) 

On the third day, we will analyze political cartoons to understand the mood of the people and their grievances. We begin by discussing the first couple of cartoons together. This is the age-old paradigm: I do, we do, you do.

After I model the document analysis students work in pairs to complete 2 on their own.

This is the only day I assign homework most of the time. I give them a reading about the Tennis COurt Oath and Storming the Bastille with questions as a reinforcement of the content.

Day 4: Declaration of the Rights of Man & Reign of Terror (Comparison) 

By now kids have an understanding of the background – what caused the revolution – an overview of the stages and the actual start of the revolution. 

On the fourth day, we will compare and contrast the Declaration of the Rights of Man and the Reign of Terror. This will help students understand the significance of these two important events in the revolution. 

Students will work in pairs to assess which liberties delineated in the Declaration of the Rights of Man are violated during the Reign of Terror .

Day 5: Napoleon (Map Work, Primary Source) 

On the fifth day, we focus on Napoleon. After my introduction, students read a passage about his exploits and label a map to reflect Napoleon’s allies and conquests. 

Most students struggle with any kind of map work, so I try to incorporate maps whenever possible.

After that, my kiddos use a chart of laws before and after the Napoleonic code to assess various groups that were affected and how .

This lesson is a quick overview of Napoleon. You could easily break it into several days. But, if I’ve learned one thing in over 20 years of teaching history it’s that you have to ruthlessly cut lots of content. Napoleon is one area I do that; sorry Bonaparte!

Day 6: Congress of Vienna (Group Work) 

The Do Now for Day 6 is a short letter from Napoleon to Josephine, his wife. I think this makes him more real, showing his softer side. He was quite the romantic!

Today we will focus on the Congress of Vienna. Students use group work to understand the goals and outcomes of the Congress. 

Each student reads a passage about the goals of one of the big players: Great Britain, Prussia, Russia and Austria. After sharing with the group they discuss and record who achieved their goals and who didn’t.

Day 7: Long-term Impact on the Church and Secularism in France (Group Work Debate) 

On the seventh day, we bring history into the present day. Students will watch a short video and read about the various bans on religious symbols and clothing in 21st-century France. 

Groups will discuss and debate the pros and cons of such a secular society. They are asked to create their own policy that ensures both freedom and societal cohesiveness.

Day 8: Review (Close Read) 

We did it: covered the key points of the French Revolution, woohoo! Now it’s time for a review.

I really like to gamify reviews most of the time. You can check out a whole list of them here . 

For the French Revolution, however, I think it’s important to revisit the key concepts and events that were covered in the first seven days. l use close-reading activities to help students understand the text and the events of the revolution. 

If you’re not familiar with the term “close read” it simply refers to assigning activities that encourage students to read carefully (rather than skimming) and to reread a passage.

You can download the reading passage here .

Students will work in pairs to read the overview and complete the activities on their handouts.

Day 9 and 10: Exam (DBQ documents and essay) 

On the last two days of the 10-day plan, we will have an exam that includes a Document-Based questions (DBQ) and an essay. 

The DBQ includes six primary and secondary sources related to the French Revolution. Each document has one short response question which scaffolds for them the causes of the revolution.

Students use the documents to write a 5-paragraph essay. I allow 2 days for this assessment.

I’ve tried giving students 1 day in class and asking them to finish as homework. You may be able to save a day by doing this. For my student population, it just doesn’t work. The kids who most need essay-writing practice are the ones who don’t do it. And it kills their grade point average.

So I take up 2 class days for this exam. It also allows me to walk around and guide and encourage struggling students (and wake up any nappers!).

It’s a Wrap for the French Revolution; onto Latin American Revolutions!

This 10-day plan for teaching the French Revolution covers all the essential topics and uses a variety of teaching modalities to help students understand the context and significance of the revolution. 

By the end of the 10 days, students should have a solid understanding of the causes, stages, and impact of the French Revolution.

But we’re not finished with revolutions, we’ve got to cover political (Latin American) and nonpolitical (industrial) revolutions next! 

“Vive la Révolution!”

Teach and Thrive

A Bronx, NY veteran high school social studies teacher who has learned most of what she has learned through trial and error and error and error.... and wants to save others that pain.

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The 6 Main Causes of the French Revolution

The main causes of the french revolution remain debated. the middle class resented political exclusion, the lower classes didn't want to support the current feudal system and the government was on the brink of bankruptcty. here we take a deeper look into the main causes of the french revolution..

Sarah Roller

27 sep 2021, @sarahroller8.

This educational video is a visual version of this article and presented by Artificial Intelligence (AI). Please see our AI ethics and diversity policy for more information on how we use AI and select presenters on our website.

In 1789, France was the powerhouse of Europe, with a large overseas empire, strong colonial trade links as well as a flourishing silk trade at home, and was the centre of the Enlightenment movement in Europe. The Revolution which engulfed France shocked her European counterparts and changed the course of French politics and government completely. Many of its values – l iberté, égalité, fraternité –  are still widely used as a motto today.

1. Louis XVI & Marie Antoinette

France had an absolute monarchy in the 18th century – life centred around the king, who had complete power. Whilst theoretically this could work well, it was a system heavily dependent on the personality of the king in question. Louis XVI was indecisive, shy and lacked the charisma and charm which his predecessors had so benefited from.

The court at Versailles , just outside Paris, had between 3,000 and 10,000 courtiers living there at any one time, all bound by strict etiquette. Such a large and complex social set required management by the king in order to manage power, bestow favours and keep a watchful eye over potential troublemakers. Louis simply didn’t have the capability or iron will necessary to do this.

Louis’ wife and queen, Marie Antoinette , was an Austrian-born princess whose (supposedly) profligate spending, Austrian sympathies and alleged sexual deviancy were targeted repeatedly. Incapable of acting in a way which might have transformed public opinion, the royal couple saw themselves become scapegoats for far more issues than those which they could control.

‘Marie Antoinette en chemise’, portrait of the queen in a muslin dress (by Louise Élisabeth Vigée Le Brun, 1783)

Image Credit: Élisabeth Louise Vigée Le Brun, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

As an absolute monarch, Louis was also held somewhat responsible – along with his advisors – for failures. Failures could only be blamed on advisors or external parties for so long, and by the late 1780s, the king himself was the target of popular discontent and anger rather than those around him: a dangerous position for an absolute monarch to be in. Whilst contemporaries may have perceived the king as being anointed by God, it was their subjects who permitted them to maintain this status.

2. Inherited problems

By no means did Louis XVI inherit an easy situation. The power of the French monarchy had peaked under Louis XIV, and by the time Louis XVI inherited, France found herself in an increasingly dire financial situation, weakened by the Seven Years War and American War of Independence .

With an old and inefficient taxation system which saw large portions of the wealthiest parts of French society exempt from major taxes, the burden was carried by the poorest and simply didn’t provide enough cash.

Variations by region also caused unhappiness: Brittany continued to pay the gabelle  (salt tax) and the  pays d’election  no longer had regional autonomy, for example. The system was clunky and unfair, with some areas over-represented and some under-represented in government and through financial contributions. It was desperately in need of sweeping reforms. The French economy was also growing increasingly stagnant. Hampered by internal tolls and tariffs, regional trade was slow and the agricultural and industrial revolution which was hitting Britain was much slower to arrive, and to be adopted in France.

3. The Estates System & the bourgeoise

The Estates System was far from unique to France: this ancient feudal social structure broke society into 3 groups, clergy, nobility and everyone else. In the Medieval period, prior to the boom of the merchant classes, this system did broadly reflect the structure of the world. As more and more prosperous self-made men rose through the ranks, the system’s rigidity became an increasing source of frustration. The new bourgeoise class could only make the leap to the Second Estate (the nobility) through the practice of venality, the buying and selling of offices.

Following  parlements  blocking of reforms, Louis XVI was persuaded to call an assembly known as the Estates General, which had last been called in 1614. Each estate drew up a list of grievances, the  cahier de doleances,  which were presented to the king. The event turned into a stalemate, with the First and Second Estates continually voting to block the Third Estate out of a petty desire to keep their status firm, refusing to acknowledge the need to work together to achieve reform.

Opening of the Estates-General in Versailles 5 May 1789

Image Credit: Isidore-Stanislaus Helman (1743-1806) and Charles Monnet (1732-1808), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

These deep divisions between the estates were a major contributing factor to the eruption of revolution. With an ever-growing and increasingly loud Third Estate, the prospect of meaningful societal change began to increasingly appear to be something of a possibility.

4. Taxation & money

French finances were a mess by the late 18th century. The taxation system allowed the wealthiest to avoid paying virtually any tax at all, and given that wealth almost always equalled power, any attempt to push through radical financial reforms was blocked by the  parlements.  Unable to change the tax, and not daring to increase the burden on those who already shouldered it, Jacques Necker, the finance minister, raised money through taking out loans rather than raising taxes. Whilst this had some short term benefits, loans accrued interest and pushed the country further into debt.

In an attempt to add some form of transparency to royal expenditure and to create a more educated and informed populace, Necker published the Crown’s expenses and accounts in a document known as the Compte rendu au roi.  Instead of placating the situation, it in fact gave the people an insight into something they had previously considered to be none of their concern.

With France on the brink of bankruptcy, and people more acutely aware and less tolerant of the feudal financial system they were upholding, the situation was becoming more and more delicate. Attempts to push through radical financial reforms were made, but Louis’ influence was too weak to force his nobles to bend to his will.

5. The Enlightenment

Historians debate the influence of Enlightenment in the French Revolution. Individuals like Voltaire and Rousseau espoused values of liberty, equality, tolerance, constitutional government and the separation of church and state. In an age where literacy levels were increasing and printing was cheap, these ideas were discussed and disseminated far more than previous movements had been.

Many also view the philosophy and ideals of the First Republic as being underpinned by Enlightenment ideas, and the motto most closely associated with the revolution itself – ‘liberté, égalité, fraternité’ – can be seen as a reflection of key ideas in Enlightenment pamphlets.

Voltaire, Portrait by Nicolas de Largillière, c. 1724

Image Credit: Nicolas de Largillière, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

6. Bad luck

Many of these issues were long term factors causing discontent and stagnation in France, but they had not caused revolution to erupt in the first 15 years of Louis’ reign. The real cost of living had increased by 62% between 1741 and 1785, and two successive years of poor harvests in 1788 and 1789 caused the price of bread to be dramatically inflated along with a drop in wages.

This added hardship added an extra layer of resentment and weight to the grievances of the Third Estate, which was largely made up of peasants and a few bourgeoise. Accusations of the extravagant spending of the royal family – irrespective of their truth – further exacerbated tensions, and the king and queen were increasingly targets of  libelles and attacks in print.

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The French Revolution

Introduction

Pre-class preparation, lesson plan  , shifts in power, french nationalism.

French Revolution

Our French Revolution lesson plan teaches students about the French Revolution, including its causes and effects, its major conflicts, and its lasting impact. Students also learn relevant vocabulary and about some key figures involved in the conflict.

Included with this lesson are some adjustments or additions that you can make if you’d like, found in the “Options for Lesson” section of the Classroom Procedure page. One of the optional additions to this lesson is to invite a historian to speak to the class about the French Revolution.

Description

Additional information, what our french revolution lesson plan includes.

Lesson Objectives and Overview: French Revolution is an overview of the French Revolution and does not include an in-depth study or investigation of the revolution. A summary of the important people and events of the revolution is included. At the end of the lesson, students will be able to explain the causes of the French Revolution and identify some of the major people and events of the war. This lesson is for students in 4th grade, 5th grade, and 6th grade.

Classroom Procedure

Every lesson plan provides you with a classroom procedure page that outlines a step-by-step guide to follow. You do not have to follow the guide exactly. The guide helps you organize the lesson and details when to hand out worksheets. It also lists information in the orange box that you might find useful. You will find the lesson objectives, state standards, and number of class sessions the lesson should take to complete in this area. In addition, it describes the supplies you will need as well as what and how you need to prepare beforehand.

Options for Lesson

Included with this lesson is an “Options for Lesson” section that lists a number of suggestions for activities to add to the lesson or substitutions for the ones already in the lesson. One optional  addition to the lesson is to a ssign each student a historical revolution to research and present to the class. You could invite a historian to speak to the class about the French Revolution. You could also have your students create a timeline of the revolution. For a group activity, you can have your students meet and discuss the causes of the French Revolution and how (or if) it could have been avoided. Finally, using the resources in the lesson, you can show your students a video to give them additional information about the French Revolution.

Teacher Notes

The teacher notes page includes a paragraph with additional guidelines and things to think about as you begin to plan your lesson. This page also includes lines that you can use to add your own notes as you’re preparing for this lesson.

FRENCH REVOLUTION LESSON PLAN CONTENT PAGES

The French Revolution lesson plan includes four content pages. The lesson begins by stating that, throughout history, people have taken over their governments using different strategies and methods. When a group of people forcibly taken over their government and want to replace it with a new system, we call it a revolution.

Revolutions have happened throughout the world. The American Revolution, or Revolutionary War, took place in America! There were many things that caused the American Revolution. In 1776, this revolution led to America’s independence from the British.

Some other historic revolutions include the Haitian Revolution, a slave rebellion, in 1791; the Iranian Revolution in 1978, where they overthrew a monarchy; and the Cuban Revolution in 1952, when Fidel Castro overthrew the president of Cuba and took over, establishing a communist government.

All revolutions stem from turmoil. They often include battles, wars, death, and destruction. They are not peaceful. One of the longest and most famous revolutions of all time is the French Revolution, which took place from 1789 to 1799.

Before diving into the French Revolution, it’s important to understand what a monarchy is. A monarchy is a form of government that has one single ruler, a king or queen, who rules for life. A family member replaces them when they die. The monarch, or leader, has absolute power. This means that no one can overrule them.

In 1789, France had a monarch named Louis XVI. He ruled with his wife, Marie Antoinette. The people of France were very unhappy and wanted to overthrow the monarchy. The French Revolution went on for ten years. It started on July 14, 1789, when revolutionaries stormed the Bastille, a famous prison. This prison was holding many French people whose only crime was speaking out against the French government.

An Overview of the Revolution

They founded France, a country in Europe, in the year 943. Spain, Italy, Germany, Belgium, Switzerland, Britain, and Luxembourg all border France. Its current capital is Paris.

There were several different reasons for the French Revolution. First of all, the government was overtaxing the poor people in the country, also called the peasants. The monarchy took advantages of the lower classes. The harvests weren’t producing enough food and the prices of food were very high. Next, the monarchy had overspent and the government went bankrupt. The people thought the king was weak. Finally, a writer named Rousseau wrote that it was wrong for the king to have absolute power. This idea became very popular amongst the French people.

The king called the Estates General, which was basically a kind of parliament, because of the country’s money problems. He had instituted higher taxes which caused thousands of complaints. The members of the Estates decided they needed to keep meeting until they’d reformed the government and created a new constitution. The people who stormed the Bastille supported them in this work.

During this time, France adopted the Rights of Man, which is kind of like the concept in America that “all men are created equal.” The Rights of Man stated that “Men are born free and remain free and equal in rights.” They also set up a parliament similar to Britain’s that they called the Convention.

In 1792, Austria and Prussia wanted to help King Louis XVI by invading France. Just a few weeks later, however, the French people executed the king and ended the monarchy.

After the Monarchy

This led to turmoil in France over the next few years. The people rebelled against the new government, the Convention, for three years. Maximilien Robespierre led a committee that made “Terror the order of the day,” ironically called the Committee of Public Safety. They also executed over 40,000 people who seemed to be a danger to the revolution by guillotine (cutting their heads off).

In 1795, Napoleon Bonaparte, a soldier who rose through the ranks during the revolution, and the army crushed the Paris mob riots. Napoleon later seized control of France and named himself First Consul (leader) and appointed himself emperor of France between 1804 and 1815.

After the French Revolution, many things changed in France. Its social and political structures changed greatly. The revolution ended the monarchy, stopped the practice of feudalism (a social system where people fight for nobles in exchange for protection), and took power away from the Catholic Church.

New ideas were introduced throughout Europe at this time, like the idea that liberty and freedom are for everyone regardless of class or wealth, the abolishment of slavery, and women’s rights. These ideologies from the French Revolution influenced Europe and many other modern-day governments.

In some ways, the French Revolution achieved for Europe what the American Revolution did for the United States. The people were not willing to live under a monarchy.

Here is a list of the vocabulary words students will learn in this lesson plan:

• Revolution: Forcibly overthrowing a government, replace it with a new system
• Monarchy: A form of government with one single ruler for life
• Monarch: The king or queen as leader of a country
• Louis XVI: King of France during the French Revolution, a monarch overthrown and executed in 1793, had abused his power over the people
• Marie Antoinette: Wife of King Louis XVI, Queen of France during the French Revolution
• Bastille: Prison taken over by a mob, began the French Revolution
• Peasants: Poor people in France during the days of the revolution
• Rousseau: Writer who wrote that it was wrong for a king to have absolute power, and the idea became popular among the people
• Estates General: A kind of parliament
• Rights of Man: The idea that all people are created equal and have free choices that should not impede others’ free choices or safety
• Convention: Government system setup similar to British parliament
• Maximilien Robespierre: Led the Committee of Public Safety, responsible for “Terror the order of the day”, 40,000 people executed
• Guillotine: An execution device used for removing a person’s head
• Napoleon Bonaparte: Soldier during the French Revolution, led the ending of the Paris mob riots, seized control of France, named himself leader and emperor of France between 1804 – 1815
• Feudalism: Social system where people fight in exchange for protection

FRENCH REVOLUTION LESSON PLAN WORKSHEETS

The French Revolution   lesson plan includes three worksheets: an activity worksheet, a practice worksheet, and a homework assignment. You can refer to the guide on the classroom procedure page to determine when to hand out each worksheet.

REVOLUTIONS ACTIVITY WORKSHEET

Students will work in groups to complete the activity worksheet. Each group will review a few different things that have inspired revolutions in the past. They will read each issue and answer some questions about each.

Students may also work alone or in pairs for this activity.

MATCHING PRACTICE WORKSHEET

For the practice worksheet, students will first match the year to its related event. They will then look at a list of names of significant people from the French Revolution and write down some facts about each of them and their roles during the French Revolution.

FRENCH REVOLUTION HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENT

The homework assignment asks students to first unscramble and define each of the terms listed. They will also respond to three short answer questions about the lesson material.

Worksheet Answer Keys

This lesson plan includes answer keys for the practice worksheet and the homework assignment. If you choose to administer the lesson pages to your students via PDF, you will need to save a new file that omits these pages. Otherwise, you can simply print out the applicable pages and keep these as reference for yourself when grading assignments.

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Analyzing Four Causes of the French Revolution

In this activity, activity overview, template and class instructions, more storyboard that activities.

• This Activity is Part of Many Teacher Guides

When they study history, students should be able to draw parallels between historical events and modern day circumstances. History can help individuals see patterns in events over time – these patterns can help us make predictions about future events, based on current conditions. Identifying parallels is especially interesting during a unit on the French Revolution, as students assess whether or not certain circumstances in the world could potentially cause a revolution. The intent of this activity is to wrap-up study of the French Revolution’s opening sequences.

In this activity, students will use a grid to create a storyboard that links the conditions that caused the French revolution to modern day situations . Their storyboard should include three columns:

This activity will require the teacher to help their students in researching “hotspots” around the globe to find pre-revolutionary conditions, similar to those described on the left hand side of the third column in the chart below. A great place to start researching is the Council on Foreign Relations .

For a scaffolding suggestion, the teacher can provide a partially filled template, with the four conditions that contributed to the French Revolution already in the left-most column. This will allow students to focus on the link to the present conditions.

Extended Activity

A fourth column could be added to this storyboard titled, “ Policy Suggestions ”. This column would identify policies that would improve the situation in Column Two. Captions for this column would identify the policy, and explain how and why it would work. Students can research policies that exist in other nations or propose their own and explain the reasoning behind their decision.

(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)

Student Instructions

Create a storyboard identifying parallels between the French Revolution and modern day events and make a prediction about what could happen.

• Click "Start Assignment".
• In the first column, identify and describe the four conditions that led to the French Revolution.
• In the second column, research, identify, and describe different situations around the world that parallel each of the four conditions.
• In the third column, make a prediction of what you believe could happen based on your knowledge of the Revolution.
• Create an illustration for each cell using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
• Save and exit when you're done.

Lesson Plan Reference

Grade Level 9-10

Difficulty Level 3 (Developing to Mastery)

Type of Assignment Individual or Group

Type of Activity: Chart Layout

French Revolution

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Causes of the French Revolution of 1789

The outbreak of the French Revolution in 1789 was the result of a combination of factors that historians still debate. Over the course of the 18th century, France experienced the unfolding of pathetically sad developments and unprecedented public outcry. The prime cause of this was indeed the abuse of people by the existing system of government: the practises of what came to be called the ancient regime . These malpractices thwarted the fundamental freedoms and liberties of the people. Historians have identified key issues inherent in the ancient regime that caused the revolution. Social injustice, inequality, socio-economic and political mismanagement, the King’s despotism, financial crisis and unfair taxation among many other factors have all been cited as chronic problems that caused discontent. So chaotic was the system of arbitrary arrests and the elaborate class stratifications. In these circumstances, the enlightenment ideals or writings of the philosophers that condemned the ancient regime came as a catalyst rather than a cause in literal senses. The influence of philosophers came only as a blow that aggravated a deep discontent that had already been felt*.

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In this study will focus on the reasons and the consequences of the French revolution. We know that the French revolution is one of the most important event in the modern history of Europe. As a political science student, it is very important to know about the context of the French revolution which has a great impact on the political science discipline. Therefore, the causes and consequences behind the French revolution can be explained in social, economic, political perspectives. However, this paper will explain the four political causes of the French such as absolutism, inequalities of right, the influence of enlightenment scholar and bankruptcy of the government.

Numerous historians, writers and scholars have depicted the Sansculottes as nothing but a shapeless heartless crowd, that were boiling with dissatisfaction, inclined to spread rumours, obsessed with nothing bar violence to achieve their goals. Historians such as Albert Soboul and George Rude have analyzed the identification, intentions and approaches of the Sansculottes only to establish that there is a deeper intricacy; the explanations of the Sansculottes and their causes, the impact that they had on the French Revolution, principally during 1792 and 1794, is undisputable.

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According to Historians Robert Darnton and Francois Furet, revolutionary ideas were spread into French political culture through pornography and porous state borders, while Jergen Habermas mentioned about French public sphere that helped to allow social change discussions among the periodical press, learned societies etc. that was created due to cultural changes of commercialism and consumerism in France. Class struggle was made due to a toothless monarchy that could not advocate and represent millions of people, which finally created a power vacuum. Social mobility was another reason for class struggle, through which Bourgeoisie was beginning to feel self-confident in their merits and self-privileges while the poor class was showing protested the feudal landlords (anti-seigneurial) by their bad attitude. The French monarchy was in a deep financial crisis due to the worldwide conflict with England due to the seven-year war (1756-1763). France lost its colonial power throughout the world and surrendered against the British allied group. Public debt was in full swing, making the monarchy disrespectful, suspicious, unskilled, and less confidential. The crisis in France finally created Enlightenment as one of its narratives for the French Revolution. It raised the right of people sovereignty mentioned in Rousseau's Social Contract long ago. The paper's objective is to discover the socio-economic-political consequences, of course, while the outcome is to achieve in-depth knowledge about French Revolution. Books and academic journals are information sources for a paper's methodological process. The feature question is, what are the discredits of French monarchies that brought the Revolution in 1789?

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Causes of French Revolution: Political, Social and Economic Causes

Causes of French Revolution: Political, Social and Economic Causes!

The three main causes of French revolution are as follows: 1. Political Cause 2. Social Cause 3. Economic Cause.

1. Political Cause:

During the eighteen the Century France was the centre of autocratic monarchy. The French Monarchs had unlimited power and they declared themselves as the “Representative of God”.

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Louis XIV was the exponent of this view. The French Monarchs engaged themselves in luxurious and extravagance at the royal court of Versailles. They enjoyed unlimited power. By the Letter de Catchet, they arrested any person at any time and imprisoned them. They paid no attention towards their subjects.

Louis XIV (1643-1715) of the Bourbon Dynasty was a powerful monarch. He was an efficient, hard-working and confident ruler. He participated in many wars. Louis XIV’s concept of unlimited royal power is revealed by his famous remarks, “I am the State”.

Louis XV (1715-1774) succeeded Louix XIV He was a ‘butterfly monarch’. His defective foreign policy weakened the economic condition of France. Louis XV fought the Seven Years War against England which brought nothing for France. France became bankrupt due to over expenditure in wars and luxury. He realised it later on. Before his death he cried-‘After me the Deluge’.

After Louis XV, Louis XVI (1774-1793) ascended the throne of France. During that period, the economic condition of France became weak. Louis XVI was an innocent and simple man. But he was influenced by his queen Marie Antoinette who always interfered in the state affairs.

Out of frustration he uttered-“Oh! What a burden of mine and they have taught me nothing.” Marie Antoinette was the daughter of Marie Theresa, the Austrian Empress. She always felt proud as she was the daughter of Austrain Empress. She always enjoyed luxurious and extravagant life. She sowed seed of the French Revolution. Thus, the autrocratic monarchy, defective administration, extravagant expenditure formed the political cause of the French Revolution.

2. Social Cause:

The Social condition of France during the eighteenth century was very miserable. The then French Society was divided into three classes— the Clergy, Nobles and Common People.

The Clergy belonged to the First Estate. The Clergy was sub­divided into two groups i.e. the higher clergy and the lower clergy. The higher clergy occupied the top position in the society. They managed the churches, monasteries and educational institutions of France. They did not pay any tax to the monarch.

They exploited the common people in various ways. The higher clergy lived in the midst of scandalous luxury and extravagance. The common people had a strong hatred towards the higher clergy. On the other hand, the lower clergy served the people in true sense of the term and they lived a very miserable life.

The Nobility was regarded as the Second Estate in the French Society. They also did not pay any tax to the king. The Nobility was also sub divided into two groups-the Court nobles and the provincial nobles. The court nobles lived in pomp and luxury. They did not pay any heed towards the problems of the common people of their areas.

On the other hand, the provincial nobles paid their attention towards the problems of the people. But they did not enjoy the same privileges as the Court nobles enjoyed. The Third Estate formed a heterogenous class. The farmers, cobblers, sweepers and other lower classes belonged to this class. The condition of the farmers was very miserable.

They paid the taxes like Taille, Tithe and Gable. Inspite of this, the clergies and the nobles employed them in their fields in curve. The Bourgeoisie formed the top most group of the Third Estate. The doctors, lawyers, teachers, businessmen, writers and philosophers belonged to this class. They had the wealth and social status. But the French Monarch, influenced by the clergies and nobles, ranked them as the Third Estate.

So they influenced the people for revolution. They aroused the common people about their rights. Thus, the common people became rebellious. The lower Clergies and the provincial nobles also joined their hands with the common people along with the bourgeoisie. So the French Revolution is also known as the ‘Bourgeoisie Revolution’.

3. Economic Cause:

The economic condition of France formed another cause for the outbreak of the French Revolution. The economic condition of France became poor due to the foreign wars of Louis XIV, the seven years War of Louis XV and other expensive wars. During the reign period of Louis XVI, the royal treasury became empty as extravagant expenses of his queen Marie Antoinette.

To get rid of this condition. Louis XVI appointed Turgot as his Finance Minister in 1774. Turgot tried to minimise the expenditure of the royal court. He also advised the king to impose taxes on every classes of the society. But due to the interference of Queen Marie Antoinette, Louis XVI dismissed Turgot.

Then Necker was appointed as the Finance Minister in 1776. He published a report on the income and expenditure of the State in order to arouse the people. But he was also dismissed by the king.

The next person who was appointed by the King as the Finance Minister of France in 1783 was Callone. He adapted the policy of borrowing in order to meet the expenditure of the royal court. But due to this policy, the national debt of France increased from 300,000,000 to 600,000,000 Franks only in three years.

Then Callone proposed to impose taxes on all the classes. But he was dismissed by the king. In this situation, the king at last summoned the States General. The economic instability formed one of the most important causes of the French Revolution.

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French Revolution (1789-1799)

Last updated on September 14, 2023 by ClearIAS Team

The French Revolution was the watershed event in modern European history that brought about the enlightenment principles and democracy, creating a rational and egalitarian society. It started in 1789 and ended in 1799.

The French Revolution was a time of social and political upheaval in France and its colonies. The liberal and radical ideas overthrew the Monarchy and influenced the decline of absolute Monarchies in other parts of Europe.

This was the revolution that led to the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte as well.

Table of Contents

France in 1789:

France was the most populated nation in Europe during this time and had been growing in wealth and prestige since the time of King Louis XIV. But this economic growth wasn’t visible as the country was still very backward socially and politically.

The social divide was because it was still divided into feudal classes of people clergy, those who pray, nobles, those who fight, and the peasants, the working class. And political backwardness was because they were still ruled by an absolute monarch who believed in the divine right of kings.

But the French involvement in the American Revolution of 1776 was a costly affair and the extravagant lifestyle of King Louis XVI and the royal family was draining the coffers. The empty royal coffers, poor harvests, and rise in food prices had created feelings of unrest among the poor rural and urban populace. The matter was further worsened by the imposition of taxes that provided no relief. As a result rioting, looting and general strikes became the norm.

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The major causes that led to the French Revolution:

• The clergy and the nobility formed the first two Estates and were the most privileged classes. They were exempted from payment of taxes to the State.
• The Third Estate consisting of peasants and workers formed the majority of the population. They were burdened with excessive taxes with no political and social rights. As a result, they were extremely discontent.
• Louis XVI waged many wars making the State coffers were empty.
• The situation was made even more complex by France’s involvement in the American War of Independence and the faulty system of taxation.
• The extravagant lifestyle of the royals added to the financial burden.
• The unstable political situation: The situation was very unstable because the Bourbon king of France, Louis XVI was an extremely autocratic and weak-willed king who led a life of excessive luxury. This caused anger among the masses who were leading lives of extreme poverty and widespread hunger.
• Philosophers like Rousseau rejected the paradigm of absolute monarchy and promulgated the doctrine of equality of man and sovereignty of people.
• They played a pivotal role in exposing the fault lines of the old political system- ‘ the ancien regime’ , thus adding to the popular discontent.
• The American Revolution also triggered the ideas of enlightenment and liberty among the intellectuals of the French society.

Timeline of the French Revolution:

1789: the meeting of the estate generals.

• The Estates-General was an assembly that represented the French nobility clergy and the middle class. They were called by Louis XVI to discuss the new tax measures in May 1789.
• The third estate was already gathering support for their involvement in the decision-making body and voting rights during this time.
• The middle class was in favour of the political and judicial reforms while the nobles did not want to give up their privileges. The talks with the third estate also failed.
• The Tennis court oath: The third estate and their support formed the National Assembly and took an oath of office in June 1789 and vowed not to disperse until reforms have been initiated.
• Seeing no other option Louis XVI had to absorb the three assemblies into the new order.

1789-92: The revolution

• The national assembly continued in Versailles as the nation was gripped in fear and uncertainty which led to the insurgency.
• This resulted in the taking of Bastille fortress on July 14, 1789. This event marked the beginning of the French Revolution.
• The peasants revolted, attacked the houses of nobles and tax collectors, and the upper class was forced to flee for their lives. This period is called the period of Great Fear.

1789: The Declaration of Rights of the Man

• The National Assembly adopted the Rights of Man and of the Citizen on August 4, 1789. The charter was based on democratic principles, drawing from philosophical as well as political ideas of Enlightenment thinkers like Jena-Jacques Rosseau.
• The French constitution was adopted on September 3, 1791. It was moderate in its stance by limiting the powers of the king, but it was not enough for the more radical members of the assembly, Robespierre who wanted Louis XVI to stand trial.

1793-95: The Reign of Terror

• A group of insurgents attacked the royal residence in Paris and arrested  Louis XVI on August 10, 1792
• The following month many who were accused of being the ‘enemies of the revolution’ were massacred in Paris. The Legislative Assembly was replaced by the National Convention which proclaimed the establishment of the Republic of France and the abolition of the Monarchy.
• King Louis XVI was condemned to death on January 21, 1793, and executed for treason. His wife, Marie Antoinette was also executed nine months later.
• The execution of the king marked the beginning of the most violent and turbulent phase of the French Revolution – the Reign of Terror.
• The National Convention was under the control of an extremist faction led by Robespierre. Under him, thousands were executed for suspected treason and counter-revolutionary activities.
• The Reign of Terror ended after Robespierre’s execution on July 28, 1794.

1795: The end of the French Revolution

• On August 22, 1795, the National Convention composed of moderates approved the creation of a new constitution that created France’s bicameral legislature.
• A Directory, a five-member group was formed by the parliament, and an army was groomed under General Napoleon Bonaparte.
• The Directory became corrupt and the army had more powers with them. A coup d’état was staged by Napoleon himself, toppling them from power.
• Napoleon appointed himself “first consul”. The French Revolution was over and the Napoleonic era was about the begin.

Role of women in the French Revolution:

Women in the Third Estate worked for a living and didn’t have access to education or training. Only daughters of the noblewomen and richer sections of society had access to any education. The wages for women were lower than those of men. Women were also mostly homemakers, hence they had to do all the housework, care for children.

But during the Revolution, women played an active role in revolutionary activities. They started their own clubs and newspapers. One of the most famous political clubs was the Society of Revolutionary and Republican Women and they were disappointed by the Constitution of 1791 which designated them, passive citizens. This Society demanded equal political rights as men. They wanted to vote and stand in elections for political office.

After the end of the revolution, the early revolutionary governments introduced many laws that improved the lives and status of women in society. Schools were created, and education was made compulsory for all girls. Marriage without consent was made illegal and divorce was made legal. Women were also allowed to be artisans and run small businesses.

Impact of the French Revolution:

The French revolution brought fundamental social, political, and economic changes in the history of France.

• End of the social divide: The French Revolution destroyed the social discriminative class system in France and declared equality for all. This led to the rise of the middle class who had acquired education to positions of responsibility.
• Declaration of rights of man: The constitutional assembly came out with the document of human rights which granted political liberty, like freedom of speech, press, association, worship, and ownership of property.
• Revolutionary ideas: The revolution gave birth to the revolutionary ideas of liberty, equality, and fraternity. These ideas started in France and spread to other areas like Italy, Germany, etc. promoting equality, freedom and democracy, and good governance. France became the birthplace of democracy.
• End of Monarchy: The Bourbon monarch that had ruled France for over 400 years came to end by the French revolution. The monarchy rule was abolished in 1792 and replaced it with the Republican form of Government. Although the Bourbon monarch was restored by the great powers after the downfall of Napoleon, it could not survive beyond 1830 because the monarchs were already weakened by the changes caused by the French revolution.
• Political Parties: France became a multiparty state as a result of the revolution. The freedom of association led to the rise of political clubs such as the Jacobins, Cordeliers, etc that competed for power. These parties kept the government under check and balance by criticizing bad policies.
• Parliamentary Democracy: The French revolution led to the revival of the parliament which was abandoned for a period of over 175 years. The revolution gave France a functional parliament with representatives who are democratically elected.
• Constitution and Rule of Law: The French revolution introduced the rule of law. Before 1789, France had no constitution to safeguard people’s rights and freedom. The constitution clearly separated the executive, the judiciary, and the legislature.
• Land ownership: The revolution brought new reforms and changes to land ownership in France. Before the revolution, the land was dominated by the clergy and the nobles who exploited the peasants. The working class was given equal rights to possess the land.
• National Guard: There was the formation of the National Guard that replaced the royal guard of the Bourbon monarchy. National Guard was the revolutionary army whose role was to protect the achievements of the French revolution.

The revolution achieved the good through a path of negatives nevertheless. There were losses of lives and properties, the reign of terror saw violence, the economy further declined to make the poor even poorer. The relationship between the church and the state deteriorated as the radical new laws and nationalization of church properties became a sour page.

The revolution also led to poor relationships between France and other states. Revolutionary ideas of the french revolution were threats to other powers and monarchs in Europe, hence, Britain, Russia, Prussia, Austria, and other countries allied against France in order to prevent the spread of revolutionary ideas to their countries.

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Global impact of the French Revolution:

The French Revolution changed modern history forever and many nations took inspiration from the ideologies it gave birth to.

The suppressive monarchies were being challenged everywhere by the people.

The ideas of liberty and equality spread all around the world over the years through the French armies.

The French became the dominant force to be reckoned with as it radicalized the political and social system of the 18 th century.

The French Revolution ended feudalism and made a path for future advances in individual freedoms, democratic principles, and equality of life.

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French Revolution

The French Revolution was a time of social and political upheaval in France and its colonies that began in 1789 and ended in 1799. Inspired by liberal and radical ideas, Its overthrow of the Monarchy influenced the decline of absolute Monarchies in other parts of Europe.

French Revolution – UPSC Notes Download PDF Here

This article will further elaborate on the effects and causes of French Revolution within the context of the Civil Services Examination .

Aspirants preparing for the IAS exam will find the article helpful in preparing for General Studies Paper 1 of UPSC.

French Revolution of 1789 – Background

The French involvement in the American Revolution of 1776 was a costly affair that left the country in a state of near bankruptcy. King Louis’s extravagant spending also did not help matters.

Empty royal coffers, poor harvests and a rise in food prices had created feelings of unrest among the poor rural and urban populace. The matter was further worsened by the imposition of taxes that provided no relief. As a result rioting, looting and general strikes became the norm

Towards the end of 1786, a universal land tax was proposed by the controller general, Charles Alexandre de Calonne. This tax reform would no longer exempt the privileged classes like the clergy and the nobility as had been the case for centuries

The King summoned the Estates-General to pass these measures. The Estates-General was an assembly that represented the French nobility clergy and the middle class. The last time the Estates-General was called was in 1614.

The date of the meeting was fixed on May 5 1789, where grievances of the three estates would be presented to the king.

To know the Difference Between Democracy and Monarchy visit the linked article.

Causes of French Revolution of 1789 

• Social – The social conditions in France in the late 18th century were extremely unequal and exploitative. The clergy and the nobility formed the first two Estates and were the most privileged classes in French society. They were exempt from payment of taxes to the State. On the other hand, the Third Estate which consisted of peasants and workers formed the majority of the population. They were burdened with excessive taxes with no political and social rights. As a result, they were extremely discontent.
• Economic – As a result of numerous wars waged by Louis XVI the State coffers were empty. The situation was made even more complex by France’s involvement in the American War of Independence and the faulty system of taxation. While the privileged classes were excused from paying taxes the Third Estate was more and more burdened with them.
• Political – The Bourbon king of France, Louis XVI was an extremely autocratic and weak-willed king who led a life of obscene luxury. This led to a lot of disenchantment among the masses who then were leading life of extreme poverty and widespread hunger.
• Intellectual – The 18th century was marked by a conscious refusal by French thinkers of the ‘Divine Rights Theory’. Philosophers like Rousseau rejected the paradigm of absolute monarchy and promulgated the doctrine of equality of man and sovereignty of people. They played a pivotal role in exposing the fault lines of the old political system, i.e. the ancien regime, and articulating the popular discontent.

Stages of French Revolution

Stage i – the meeting of the estates-general.

Despite the non-aristocratic members outnumbering the aristocrats in terms of population. Yet, they could be outvoted by the other two bodies.

Before the meeting of the Estates-General on May 5, members of the Third Estate (as the non-aristocratic class was known) began to mobilise the support of equal voting rights which would be based on head and not by status.

While the middle class believed that fiscal and judicial reform was the need of the hour, the nobles were against the idea of giving up the privileges they had enjoyed under the traditional system.

When the meeting was convened, the question over the voting process turned to open hostility between the three orders, thus the original purpose of the meeting and the authority of the king who called for it being neglected.

With further talks having failed the Third Estate met alone and formally adopted the title of National Assembly on June 17, 1789. They gathered in a nearby indoor tennis court and took the oath of office. This oath was known as the Tennis Court Oath. The members of this new assembly vowed not to disperse until reforms had been initiated.

Seeing no other option Loius XVI had the absorb the three assemblies into the new order.

You can find out the difference between constitution and law by visiting the linked article

Stage II – The French Revolution Begins

The National Assembly continued to meet at Versailles. In the meantime, fear and violence had consumed Paris.

Speculations went around regarding an imminent military coup. This led to an insurgency which resulted in the taking of Bastille fortress on July 14, 1789. This event marked the beginning of the French Revolution

A wave of revolutionary fervour spread throughout the countryside, which led to a peasant revolt that saw many homes of tax collectors and burnt as well as those of the aristocrats themselves.

The rebellions caused the nobles of the country to flee en masse. This period is known as the Great Fear when the National Assembly finally dealt a fatal blow to feudalism on August 4, 1789. The old order had finally ended.

Stage III – Declaration of Rights of Man

The National Assembly adopted the Rights of Man and of the Citizen on August 4, 1789. The charter was grounded on democratic principles, drawing from the philosophical as well as political ideas of Enlightenment thinkers like Jena-Jacques Rosseau. The declaration was published on August 26, 1789

The Constitution was adopted on September 3, 1791. It symbolised a new French society where the king would have limited powers with a moderate assembly wielding the most power. This, however, was not enough for the radical elements of the assembly like Goerges Danton and Maximilien de Robespierre, who demanded a trial of the king and a more republican form of government.

The French constitution was adopted on September 3, 1791. Although it was moderate in its stance by limiting the powers of the king, it was not enough for the more radical members of the assembly like Maximilien de Robespierre who wanted Loise XVI to stand trial.

To know the difference between written and unwritten constitutions , visit the linked article

Stage IV – Reign of Terror

The revolution took a more radical turn when a group of insurgents attacked the royal residence in Paris and arrested  Louis XVI on August 10, 1792

The following month many who were accused of being the ‘enemies of the revolution’ were massacred in Paris. Some of these included the moderate voices of the revolution. The Legislative Assembly was replaced by the National Convention which proclaimed the establishment of the Republic of France and the abolition of the Monarchy.

King Louis XVI was condemned to death on January 21, 1793, and executed for treason. His wife, Marie Antoinette would follow him nine months later.

The execution of the king marked the beginning of the most violent and turbulent phase of the French Revolution – the Reign of Terror.

The National Convention was under the control of an extremist faction led by Robespierre. Under his auspices, thousands were executed for suspected treason and counter-revolutionary activities. The Reign of Terror ended with Robespierre’s execution on July 28, 1794.

Robespierre’s death began a moderate phase during which the people of France revolted against the excesses committed during the Reign of Terror . This was known as the Thermidorian Reaction.

Stage V – End of the French Revolution

On August 22, 1795, the National Convention, now composed of moderates who had survived the excesses of the Reign of Terror approved the creation of a new constitution that created France’s bicameral legislature.

The power would be in the hands of the Directory, a five-member group appointed by the parliament. Any opposition to this group was removed through the efforts of the army, now led by an upcoming and successful general, Napoleon Bonaparte.

The Directory’s rule was marked by financial crises and corruption. In addition, they had ceded much of their authority to the army that had helped them stay in power.

Finally, resentment against the Directory reached a fever pitch and a coup d’état was staged by Napoleon himself, toppling them from power. Napoleon appointed himself “first consul”. The French Revolution was over and the Napoleonic era was about the begin during which time French domination of continental Europe would become the norm.

Candidates can learn more about Napolean Bonaparte on the given link.

Significance of the French Revolution 

For all its faults, the French Revolution is highly regarded as the turning point in modern history as the rise of new ideas steeped in liberalism, enlightenment and democracy. These ideals were carried throughout Europe by French armies that fought many wars to preserve the Republic’s existence. It inspired the common folk in Europe to rise against their own Monarchs in a wave of revolutionary fervour. Although most were harshly put down, the revolutions would continue into the early years of the 19th century which saw the fall of many absolute Monarchy all over Europe.

FAQ about French Revolution

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Causes Of The French Revolution

People often study major events in history. These events often cause a change, such as a revolution. A revolution is a forcible overthrow of government or social order in favor of a new system. One major event studied in history is The French Revolution. The French Revolution of 1789 was caused by the many political, social, and economic injustices people in France faced at the time. One reason The French Revolution was caused was due to social injustices. One example of this is considering the three estates within France. The first estate was the Roman Catholic church , the second estate consisted of nobles and the third estate was the other 98% percent, the Bourgeoisie, workers and peasants. (ROI) Within the estates social injustices were faced. The Clergy, 1% of people owned 10% of the land, the nobles, 2% of people owned 35% of the land and the middle/working class owned 55% of the land. (Doc. 2) This would mean that 3% of the people owned 45% of the land whilst the leftover 97% of citizens had to share 55% of the land. French citizens quickly realized this was a social injustice, unfair. Secondly, the educated middle class people of the third estate studied ideas of the Enlightenment which meant they believed in equality, liberty and democracy. “The middle class… was sensitive to their inferior legal position . The Revolution came from them–the middle class.” (Doc. 4) These ideals were not present in France and citizens of the third estate were quick to realize that

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We have a privacy and confidentiality policy that guides our work. We NEVER share any customer information with third parties. Noone will ever know that you used our assignment help services. It’s only between you and us. We are bound by our policies to protect the customer’s identity and information. All your information, such as your names, phone number, email, order information, and so on, are protected. We have robust security systems that ensure that your data is protected. Hacking our systems is close to impossible, and it has never happened.

How our Assignment  Help Service Works

1.      place an order.

You fill all the paper instructions in the order form. Make sure you include all the helpful materials so that our academic writers can deliver the perfect paper. It will also help to eliminate unnecessary revisions.

2.      Pay for the order

Proceed to pay for the paper so that it can be assigned to one of our expert academic writers. The paper subject is matched with the writer’s area of specialization.

3.      Track the progress

You communicate with the writer and know about the progress of the paper. The client can ask the writer for drafts of the paper. The client can upload extra material and include additional instructions from the lecturer. Receive a paper.

4.      Download the paper

The paper is sent to your email and uploaded to your personal account. You also get a plagiarism report attached to your paper.

• Experienced Writers

• Access to a pool of experts
• Experienced writers
• Any kind of assignment
• Subject-relevant writer
• Full compliance with instructions
• Direct communication with your writer

Why Choose Us?

• → Plagiarism free papers
• → Timely delivery
• → Any deadline
• → Experienced Writers
• → Adherence to paper instructions
• → Ability to tackle bulk assignments
• → Reasonable prices
• → 24/7 Customer Support

Why Hire Our Writers?

• → Access to a pool of experts
• → Experienced writers
• → Any kind of assignment
• → Subject-relevant writer
• → Full compliance with instructions
• → Direct communication with your writer
• → Get superb grades consistently

How to place an order:

• Fill the order form
• Pay for the order
• Track progress of your paper
• Download paper from your email or personal account

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