Before 1789, France was ruled by King Louis XVI with absolute power. The common people (Third Estate) paid heavy taxes while nobles and clergy paid nothing. People were hungry, the government was bankrupt, and ideas about equality were spreading from thinkers like Rousseau and Voltaire. In 1789, the French people revolted, executed the king, and created a new system based on liberty and equality
Storming of the Bastille (July 14, 1789) - A prison fortress attacked by angry Parisians, marking the revolution's start 2. Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen (August 1789) - First document declaring human rights and equality 3. Reign of Terror (1793-1794) - Thousands were executed under Robespierre's rule 4. Rise of Napoleon (1799) - A military general who took power and ended the chaos Key Rules: - The revolution abolished feudalism and class privileges - It established that power comes from the people, not a king - It created the concept of citizenship and civil rights - Metric system and new calendar were introduced
SSC CGL typically asks: (1) What event started the revolution? (2) Who was the main leader during Reign of Terror? (3) What document declared human rights? (4) What year did it start? (5) Consequences on European politics. Questions focus on key dates, important figures, and major outcomes. Shortcut/Trick: Remember "1789 = Start, 1793 = Terror, 1799 = Napoleon." These three years cover the entire revolution. Also: Bastille Day = July 14 = France's Independence Day.
Q: Which event in 1789 is considered the symbolic start of the French Revolution? A: The Storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789. Angry crowds attacked this royal prison to get weapons and free political prisoners. It showed the people's power against the king.
Students confuse the American Revolution (1776) with the French Revolution (1789). Remember: American came first, inspired by Enlightenment; French came after, more violent, with mass executions.
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