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A Summoning of Classes
The Estates-General was an assembly of the different classes (or estates) of French subjects. It was summoned in January of 1789 by King Louis XVI to discuss solutions to the nation's debt. -
Flint and Tinder
A meeting of the Estates-General was called by Louis XVI in Versailles to discuss and approve a new tax plan. This plan further enrages the lower classes. They already have few finances to pay for their personal needs, and now higher taxes are imposed on them. -
A New Group Forms
As the three estates clashed over their respective powers, tensions between the classes increased. The Estates-General was dismembered when several members of the Third Estate formed themselves into a National Assembly. The formation of the assembly was an initial event signaling the start of the French Revolution. -
We Swear
The National Assembley institutes the Tennis Court Oath in which the members of the Third Estate assembled on a tennis court after being locked out of their meeting room and refuse to leave or separate until a constitutional regime is established. -
Sparks Fly
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Fanning the Flames
The National Assembly proclaims itself the Constituent National Assembly, and grants itself full authority and power to decree laws. Their primary task is to draw up and adopt a constitution. While this is a victory for the lower class, it angers the upper classes, who increase threats to the lower classes. -
A Mighty Storm
Armed and angry citizens storn the Bastille, a French prison. Inspired by the seven indiduals who initiated the act, others join in and the Bastille falls to the common power. -
A Fear Takes Hold
A period know as the 'Great Fear' is marked by the panic and riot by peasants and others amid rumours of an “aristocratic conspiracy” by the king. The Great Fear begins as peasants revolt across France. -
An End
The National Assembly decrees abolition of feudalism and serfdom in France.This appeases the massess of France. -
Citizen Rights Instituted
National Assembly decrees Declaration of the Rights of Man and the Citizen which contains provisions pertaining to the individual and the Nation. It also entitles rights such as liberty, property, security, and the right to resist oppression. The Declaration recognizes equality, notably before the law and justice and asserts the principle of the separation of powers. -
Women Take a Stand
The women of Paris invade Versailles and demand bread. After scuffles, they are fobbed off by the King. -
Renouncing of Titles
Abolition of nobility and titles occurs. -
A Failed Attempt
King Louis XVI and his family attempt to flee to France but are recognized, arrested, and forcibly returned to Paris. -
Continued "Progress"
The National Convention elected by the Legislative Assembly commences and abolishes monarchy. -
La Guillotine
After the trial of Louis XVI is commenced in December of 1792, the king is sentenced to the guillotine -
A Reign of Terror Begins
The Reign of Terror court sentenced 20,000 to 40,000 people to death beginning in September 1793 to July 1794 -
A New Frontier
Constitution of Year III approved, establishing Directory -
The End of Suffering
After attacks, threats, and accusations, the fall and resignation of the French Directorate signals the end of the French Revolution.
