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Montesquieu publishes The Spirit of Laws
Montesquieu's The Spirit of Laws (1748) explores the relationship between law, politics, and society. He argues that laws should reflect the social and environmental context, influencing governance and liberty. -
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HISTORY
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THE FRENCH AND INDIAN WAR
he French and Indian War (1754-1763) was a conflict between France and Britain in North America, with Native American involvement. It ended with British victory, reshaping colonial borders and leading to tensions that contributed to the American Revolution. -
The Declaration of Independence of the US
The Declaration of Independence was approved by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776. After a draft, largely written by Thomas Jefferson, was reviewed and edited, delegates from the 13 colonies unanimously voted in favor. The document declared the colonies' independence from Britain, citing grievances and affirming the right to self-governance. -
The Treaty of Paris ends the American Revolutionary War
The Treaty of Paris (1783) officially ended the American Revolutionary War, recognizing American independence. It established new borders, granting the U.S. territory from the Atlantic to the Mississippi River, and resolved issues between Britain and the newly-formed nation. -
Formation of the National Assembly
In June 1789, deputies of the Third Estate, frustrated by their lack of power in the Estates-General, declared themselves the National Assembly of France. They vowed to represent the people and create a new constitution. This act marked the beginning of the French Revolution, challenging royal authority and advocating for equality and representation. -
Storming of the Bastille
On July 14, 1789, the storming of the Bastille marked a pivotal moment in the French Revolution. Parisians attacked the prison, symbolizing royal tyranny. They sought weapons and ammunition, and the fall of the Bastille signified the people’s revolt against monarchy, igniting widespread revolutionary fervor across France. -
Approval of the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizens
The Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen was approved by the National Assembly on August 26, 1789. It proclaimed universal rights such as liberty, equality, and fraternity, emphasizing individual freedoms and the sovereignty of the people. This foundational document laid the groundwork for modern democratic ideals in France. -
The Flight to Varennes
On June 20, 1791, King Louis XVI and his family attempted to escape Paris to seek refuge in Varennes, fearing for their safety amid the French Revolution. They were recognized and arrested, marking a significant blow to the monarchy's credibility. This failed flight led to growing distrust and eventual abolition of the monarchy.