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1789-91: National Assembly Phase of the French Revolution
From 1789 to 1791, the National Assembly Phase marked a profound shift in the course of the French Revolution.
Fueled by deep-seated economic disparities and growing discontent, the Third Estate, representing the common people, demanded a change in the monarchy's autocratic rule.
This period saw the convening of the Estates-General and the eventual formation of the National Assembly, highlighting the people's aspirations for representation and participatory governance. -
June 1789: Tennis Court Oath
In June 1789, the Third Estate, representing the disenfranchised majority, took a historic stand on the tennis court, declaring themselves the National Assembly.
This oath symbolized their commitment to bring about transformative change and assert the people's authority against the monarchy's resistance.
The Tennis Court Oath resonated as a powerful expression of unity and determination, as well as a turning point in the revolution's momentum. -
July 1789: Storming the Bastille
The storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, holds a place of immense significance in the collective memory of the French Revolution.
The fall of the Bastille, a symbol of oppression, emboldened the revolutionary spirit across the nation and inspired acts of solidarity.
The Bastille's capture catalyzed the formation of local militias and a sense of collective agency, propelling the revolution towards more radical phases. -
October 1789: Women’s March on Versailles
Amidst a backdrop of soaring food prices and famine, the Women's March on Versailles in October 1789 embodied the grievances of ordinary people, particularly women.
Thousands of working-class women marched to Versailles, voicing their anger and demanding action from the monarchy.
Their demand for bread and justice found resonance, compelling King Louis XVI to return to Paris and compelling the royals to be more accountable to the needs of the people. -
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French Revolution Timeline
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June 1791: Escape of Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette
The attempted escape of King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette in June 1791 exposed the growing chasm between the monarchy and the revolution.
The royals' endeavor to flee and seek foreign intervention against the revolutionaries revealed their reluctance to embrace constitutional change.
The failure of the escape further eroded public trust in the monarchy, intensifying calls for a more radical break from traditional governance. -
September 1792: Monarchy Abolished
In September 1792, the radical shift from a constitutional monarchy to a republic was symbolized by the National Convention's decision to abolish the monarchy.
This transformative step marked a radical departure from centuries of monarchical rule, illustrating the people's determination to redefine governance based on the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity.
The monarchy's abolition represented a crucial moment of transition towards a new political order. -
March 1793: Reign of Terror Begins
The Reign of Terror, initiated in March 1793, was a period of intense political repression and mass violence.
Driven by fears of counter-revolution and foreign invasion, the Committee of Public Safety led by Robespierre pursued radical measures to eliminate perceived enemies of the revolution.
This phase illustrates the dangers of unchecked radicalism and the complexities of striking a balance between revolutionary ideals and maintaining stability. -
January 1793: Execution of King Louis XVI
The execution of King Louis XVI in January 1793 sent shockwaves through France and the world.
This event epitomized the rupture with the old order and demonstrated the revolution's commitment to justice and accountability.
The king's execution served as both a symbolic and practical act, severing the ties to the monarchy and signaling the uncompromising stance of the revolutionaries. -
September 1795: Rise of Napoleon
The rise of Napoleon Bonaparte in September 1795 marked a critical juncture in the French Revolution's trajectory.
Napoleon's intervention to quell a royalist uprising and protect the Directory showcased the pivotal role of military leadership during times of instability.
His subsequent ascendancy as a powerful figure illustrated the allure of strong leadership amidst uncertainty, foreshadowing his transformative impact on France's political landscape. -
August 1795: New Constitution Adopted
After the turbulent Reign of Terror, the adoption of the Constitution of the Year III in August 1795 aimed to restore stability.
This event signaled the revolution's evolving trajectory, from the radicalism of previous years to a more measured approach to governance.
The constitution's establishment underscored the ongoing tension between revolutionary ideals and the practical challenges of governing a nation in transition.