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National Constituent Assembly
It was created by members of the Third Estate when they were excluded from the Estates General. The goal was to create a new constitution for France that included all the rights of the people. Several reforms were approved, such as the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen. This Assembly was essential for the political and social changes during the Revolution. -
Formal opening of the Estates General
It was held in Versailles and was convened by King Louis XVI to address France's financial crisis. The three estates were gathered, but there was significant tension between them, leading to a standstill. This event marked the beginning of a revolutionary process that would lead to the French Revolution. -
Tennis Court Oath
It was an important event early in the French Revolution. Members of the Third Estate were left out of a meeting, so they met in a tennis court and promised not to leave until they created a new constitution. This was significant for representing the people and starting a government based on the will of the people. It showed a change in power away from the monarchy. -
Storming of the Bastille
It was a key event in the French Revolution. The Bastille, a prison that symbolized the king's power, was attacked by people searching for weapons. Its fall started the fight against the monarchy's oppression. This act stood for freedom and resistance. Today, the storming of the Bastille is celebrated as Bastille Day, a national holiday in France. -
The August Decrees
The August Decrees were decisions made by the National Assembly to address the needs of the people during the Revolution. These orders eliminated the privileges of the nobility and the clergy, ensuring that everyone had the same rights under the law. Basic rights, such as freedom of expression, were upheld. This marked the end of the old regime and created a fairer society. It helped France become a republic. -
The Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen
It is a fundamental document of the French Revolution. It establishes principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity, stating that all men are born free and equal in rights. It recognizes essential rights (freedom of expression, the right to own property, etc.). This declaration is considered a cornerstone in the history of human rights. -
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Legislative Assembly
It was created as the new government of France after the National Assembly. It was made up of elected representatives who could make laws and make decisions about the country. This faced many problems, and tensions arose that led France to war with other countries. This assembly lasted only a year and was replaced by the National Convention due to the crisis in the country. -
The Flight to Varennes
King Louis XVI and his family tried to escape Paris to join royalist supporters. Disguised as regular people, they aimed to reach the border but were recognized and caught in Varennes. This failure weakened the king's power and fueled revolutionary anger. The event showed the rising conflict between the monarchy and revolutionary ideas. Eventually, it led to the king's imprisonment and execution. -
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1st French Republic
It was announced on September 22, 1792, ending the monarchy. It was created amid a political and social crisis, seeking equality and rights. Important changes were made, such as the creation of new laws and the abolition of the monarchy. The republic faced internal problems, including wars with other countries. The First Republic ended in 1804 when Napoleon became emperor. -
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National Convention
It was created during the French Revolution to replace the National Assembly. It focused on making a new government and ended the monarchy, declaring France a republic. This period was full of debates and conflicts, with leaders like Robespierre becoming powerful. The Convention was also in charge of the trial and execution of King Louis XVI, which was a big change for France. -
The Assembly declares war on Austria
They were worried about Austria's support for the French king and the threat to the revolution. The Assembly believed that a war would unite the country and spread revolutionary ideas to other nations. France faced many challenges, including poorly trained soldiers and food shortages. This decision marked the beginning of a long and difficult conflict for France. -
Storming of the Tuileries Palace
Some revolutionaries in this year, attacked the place were king Louis XVI and his family were staying. They wanted to end the king’s power and make sure the revolution succeeded. The attack led to the king's arrest and showed how serious the people were about change. This event was an important step in the French Revolution, pushing France towards a republic. -
Execution of Louis XVI
After being found guilty of treason, he was sentenced to death by guillotine. Many people in France felt that he had give away the revolution. His execution marked a big change for the country, as it ended the monarchy. This event shocked Europe and showed that the revolutionaries were serious about their goals. -
Execution of Robespierre
He was a key leader during the French Revolution and had been in charge of the Reign of Terror. Many people were scared of him and his extreme ideas. Eventually, his enemies turned against him, and he was arrested. Robespierre was guillotined the next day, ending a period of fear and violence in France. -
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Directory
The Directory was the government of France created after the National Convention. It had five leaders who were supposed to bring stability after the chaos of the Revolution. However, it faced many problems, like economic struggles and political corruption. The Directory tried to keep control but became unpopular with the people. Eventually, it was overthrown by Napoleon Bonaparte in a coup, leading to a new era in France.