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Montesquieu publishes book, On the Spirit of Laws
Montesquieu, a French philosopher publishes a book, On the Spirit of Laws. This book is very controversial and gets him into a lot of trouble. It was controversial because Montesquieu taught that the ideal government changes as the needs of the people change. -
America declares independence
The America colonies declare their independence from Britain. They do so in the Declaration of Independence. This document is heavily based on European philosophers, including Locke. -
French Revolution
The French people, after seeing America revolt, do the same thing. Their revolution began with a document similar to the American Declaration of Independence, which was called the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen. -
1799 Napoleon overthrows the Directory through a coup d’etat
Napoleon overthrows the Directory through a coup d’etat, which is a sudden, violent, and illegal seizure of power from the government. Napoleon replaced the Directory with the French Consulate. -
Napoleon crowns himself Emperor
Napoleon crowns himself Emperor and begins to create a vast European Empire. He makes it seem like it was the people's decision by having an "election.” -
Haiti wins freedom from France
Haiti wins freedom from France in the largest and most successful slave revolt in human history. The slaves were aided by Spain and Britain, which played a large part in their success. -
Padre Hidalgo calls for Mexican Independence
Padre Hidalgo calls for Mexican Independence in a speech called the Cry of Dolores. Padre Hidalgo was the parish priest in the Mexican town of Dolores, and he called upon the townspeople to rise up against Spanish oppression. This speech is considered the start of the Mexican revolution and is celebrated as part of Mexican Independence Day. -
Napoleon is defeated at the Battle of Waterloo
Napoleon is defeated at the Battle of Waterloo. Almost 200,000 men fought in this battle between France and the Seventh Coalition. Napoleon lost the battle, and was replaced as ruler of France by King Louis XVIII.
