French Revolution – Causes & Consequences

This set of flashcards covers key concepts, events, and figures from the French Revolution and its aftermath, focusing on causes, effects, and political changes.

What were the three estates in the French social structure prior to the revolution?

First Estate: Clergy, Second Estate: Nobility, Third Estate: Everyone else.

What was a major cause of the financial crisis in France leading up to the French Revolution?

Debt from wars, especially the American Revolution, and excessive spending by King Louis XVI.

What was the Tennis Court Oath?

A promise made by the Third Estate not to disband until a constitution was written.

What event marked the start of the French Revolution?

The Storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789.

What major declaration emerged during the early stages of the French Revolution?

The Declaration of the Rights of Man, which emphasized liberty, equality, and fraternity.

Who were the Jacobins during the French Revolution?

A radical political group that was supported by the sans-culottes and led by Maximilien Robespierre.

What was the Reign of Terror?

A period from 1793 to 1794 characterized by extreme violence where around 40,000 people were executed to protect the revolution.

What were the main goals of the Congress of Vienna?

To restore stability in Europe, prevent future revolutions, and return Europe to pre-revolution conditions.

What principle aimed to prevent any single country from dominating Europe during the Congress of Vienna?

Balance of Power.

Who was Prince Klemens von Metternich?

The Austrian Foreign Minister who dominated European politics post-Napoleon and supported conservatism.

What reform did Napoleon implement that is known for maintaining equality before the law?

The Napoleonic Code.

What event led to Napoleon's downfall?

The failed invasion of Russia in 1812, exacerbated by the harsh winter and scorched earth policy.

What was the result of the Reign of Terror on the French Revolution?

It ended the radical phase, leading to a backlash against extremism and setting the stage for the Directory and Napoleon.

What tactic did the Montagnards use against the Girondins during the Reign of Terror?

They purged the Girondins as they turned on them after eliminating the monarchists.

What did the 'National Razor' refer to during the Reign of Terror?

The guillotine, which became a symbol of equality in death.

What was the Thermidorian Reaction?

The event marking the arrest and execution of Robespierre, which ended the Reign of Terror.