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Louis XVI calls the Estates general
France was in financial and political danger. He turned to the Estates General for their guidance. This event was important because the economy of France would have worsened. Also, the Estates General would then decide what reforms to make for the country. -
Tennis Court Oath
In short, the National Assembly promised not to stop meeting until France had a constitution. The people gathered in Versailles to establish this newfound act. The event was important because it was a defiant act against the monarch. It was also an important turning point in the revolution. -
Writing of the Declaration of the Rights of Men
It was made as a preamble to the Constitution made in 1791. The Declaration talks about the basic and human liberties that all men equally hold. It was important because of how the principles solidify the notion of separation of powers. Also, it gave men the right to share their free ideas/opinions. -
Parisians storming the Bastille
A mob of Parisians came to the Bastille and demanded weapons and ammo. When the guards didn't let them in, they stormed in and destroyed everything. This event was important because it proved a shaky point. The power of the monarch and the King could, and was, being challenged. -
March on Versailles
Women in the marketplace grew upset over the unfair treatment and stupid pricing of bread. They then decided to cause a riot, marching from Paris to Versailles. The importance of the event comes from the consistent show of defiance throughout the French Revolution. Also, it became one of the most significant events of the revolution. -
Execution of the King
Louis XVI refused to give up his royal power to the Revolutionary government. Therefore, he was made guilty of treason and guillotined. It was important because one, he was the first king to ever be executed. Second, his death ended the years of the French monarchy. -
Reign of Terror
Some radical Parisians threatened to terrorize the new order. The First Republic responded with violence, killing and beheading anyone who threatened their rule. This was important because it created the conscripted army. Also, it somehow saved the Revolution. -
Execution of the Queen
Just like the King, Marie-Antoinette was guillotined by the people for high treason. She also did not give up her power. This event was important because it was an intense point during the revolution. By meeting the same fate as the King, the Queen's reign came to an end. -
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Napoleon Builds an Empire
Napoleon was very successful as a war general. In order to build his armies, he constantly defended France all while gaining land from enemy Coalition armies. This was important because Napoleon was able to bring the nation into a powerful era. His military strength won them many battles. -
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Napoleon Overthrows the Directory
Napoleon's efforts made him a hero and gave him an even bigger alliance. Because the Directory was such a weak system, Napoleon and the crowd banded together to overthrow them. This event was important because it led Napoleon to power. Also, it could have been seen as an end to the revolution. -
Napoleon Invades Russia
Napoleon hoped to make Tsar Alexander I of Russia to stop trading with British merchants. He also wanted to affirm his supremacy in the balance of European power. But this was an important event because it stopped his march through Europe. Also, it caused him his first exile. -
The Congress of Vienna Meets
This system was made to balance the powers of Europe sufficiently. Eventually, the joined powers chose to meet in order to create a peaceful source of power in Europe in September, 1814. It was important because this was the first genuine attempt at being internationally peaceful. Also, it was a political turning point. -
6th Coalition Occupies Paris
Napoleon's reign was becoming dangerous. In order to defeat his army and drive him out of France, the 6th Coalition was formed and invaded Paris in the process. This group was important because it brought an end to Napoleon. Although he didn't die, he was ultimately exiled. -
King Louis XVIII Begins His Reign
He was the brother of Louis XVI and had Napoleon as his predecessor. Louis XVIII was one of the more politically involved sons during his reign. This was important because he saw the importance of France's parliament. In short, he was actually invested in the nation's well-being. -
Napoleon Defeated at Waterloo
Using up his last reserves, Napoleon was flanked by the enemy cavalry. His imperial power then came to an end. This battle was important because it ended French attempts to take over Europe. Also, it ended Napoleon's reign of power forever.