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Louis XVI calls the Estates General
Louis XVI asked people from different groups in France to meet and talk about the country's problems in 1789. This was a big deal during the French Revolution because it showed a desire to fix money troubles and unfairness. The meeting led to the National Assembly being formed, changing how France was governed and affecting the power of the king. -
Tennis Court Oath
In 1789, when the king locked them out of their usual meeting place, representatives of the common people in France, called the Third Estate, made a promise on a tennis court to create a new constitution. This event, known as the Tennis Court Oath, was a strong symbol of their determination to bring about political change. It played a crucial role in shaping the events of the French Revolution, marking a shift toward more democratic ideas and challenging the absolute power of the king. -
Parisians storming the Bastille
In 1789, furious Parisians stormed the Bastille, a prison seen as a symbol of royal tyranny. This event marked the beginning of the French Revolution and showed the people's frustration with the monarchy. The storming of the Bastille became a powerful symbol of the fight against oppression, and its fall is celebrated as a key moment in the struggle for freedom and democracy in France. -
Writing of the Declaration of the Rights of Men
In 1789, leaders during the French Revolution wrote the Declaration of the Rights of Man. This important document stated that everyone should have equal rights and freedom. It played a key role in shaping the principles of the revolution, emphasizing the idea that all citizens should be treated fairly and have basic rights. -
March On Versailles
In 1789, angry people marched to Versailles because they were unhappy with high prices and lack of food. This event, known as the March on Versailles, saw ordinary folks demanding the king and queen come to Paris. It played a big role in the French Revolution, highlighting people's frustrations and influencing the course of political changes. -
Establishment of the New French Constitution
In 1791, the French Revolution led to the creation of a new constitution, outlining how the country would be governed. This marked a significant shift from absolute monarchy to a constitutional monarchy, defining the roles of different branches of government. The establishment of the new constitution reflected the revolutionary ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity, setting the stage for a transformed political landscape in France. -
Execution of the King and Queen
In 1793, in the midst of the French Revolution, the king and queen were executed. This event marked the conclusion of monarchical rule and the dawn of a more egalitarian era. The execution served as a profound symbol of the revolutionary commitment to equality. -
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Reign of Terror
The Reign of Terror happened during the French Revolution from 1793 to 1794. It was a time of lots of violence, with many people getting executed, especially using the guillotine. This period is important because it changed the revolution, making radical ideas stronger, and it eventually helped Napoleon Bonaparte become a big figure in French history. -
Napoleon Overthrows the Directory
In 1799, Napoleon Bonaparte overthrew the Directory in France, seizing power in a coup. This event marked the end of the French Revolution and the beginning of the Napoleonic era. Napoleon's rise to power brought stability but also led to conflicts across Europe as he expanded his influence. -
Napoleon Builds an Empire
Napoleon built a big empire by conquering and ruling over many European countries from 1804 to 1814. His military victories helped him expand the French Empire. However, his ambitious quest for power eventually led to his downfall. -
Napoleon Invades Russia
In 1812, Napoleon invaded Russia with a massive army, aiming to expand his empire. The harsh Russian winter, along with logistical challenges, inflicted severe losses on the French forces. The failed invasion marked a turning point in Napoleon's rule, weakening his power and setting the stage for his eventual defeat. -
6th Coalition Occupies Paris
In 1814, the Sixth Coalition occupied Paris during the Napoleonic Wars. This event marked a crucial step towards the downfall of Napoleon Bonaparte. The occupation eventually led to Napoleon's abdication and his exile to the island of Elba. -
King Louis XVIII Begins His Reign
King Louis XVIII began his reign in 1814 after the fall of Napoleon. His rule marked the restoration of the Bourbon monarchy in France. Louis XVIII aimed to balance royal authority with constitutional principles, attempting to address the complexities arising from the revolutionary and Napoleonic eras. -
The Congress of Vienna Meets
The Congress of Vienna met in 1814 to bring stability to Europe after the Napoleonic Wars. Leaders from major European powers aimed to establish a balance of power and redraw national borders. The congress laid the groundwork for a lasting peace, promoting diplomacy and cooperation among nations to prevent further conflicts. -
Napoleon Defeated at Waterloo
Napoleon faced defeat at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815, marking the end of his rule. The British and Prussian forces joined to defeat Napoleon. This battle concluded his Hundred Days rule and led to his exile to the remote island of Saint Helena, marking the final chapter of Napoleon's influence in European affairs.