AICE Euro History Unit 1: France 1774-1814

What was the Ancien Régime in pre-1789 France?

The political and social system characterized by absolute monarchy and a highly stratified social order with three estates.

What characterized the 1st Estate in France before the Revolution?

The 1st Estate was the clergy, who enjoyed wealth, privileges, and did not pay direct taxes.

What was the major grievance of the 3rd Estate prior to the French Revolution?

The 3rd Estate bore the financial burden and was made up of peasants, urban workers, and the bourgeoisie, who resented the privileges of the First and Second Estates.

What was the corvée?

Compulsory labor required of the Third Estate while the Second Estate was exempt.

What historical events contributed to the financial crisis in France in the late 1780s?

Massive spending on the Seven Years' War and aid to the American Revolution led to significant debt.

Who was Jacques Necker, and what was his significance?

The finance minister who advised Louis XVI to summon the Estates General to address France's financial issues.

What were the Cahiers de Doléances?

Lists of grievances drawn up by each estate at the King's request before the Estates General.

What was a turning point of the Estates General convened on May 5, 1789?

The debate over voting by head versus voting by order, which led to the declaration of the National Assembly.

What was the Tennis Court Oath?

An oath taken by members of the National Assembly vowing to not disband until a new constitution was created.

What did the Storming of the Bastille symbolize?

A symbolic victory over royal despotism and a loss of control for Louis XVI over Paris.

What was the significance of the August Decrees?

The National Assembly abolished the feudal system, removing privileges of the Second Estate.

What did the Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen establish?

The foundational principles of the new constitutional order based on Enlightenment ideas.

What was the impact of the March of the Women in October 1789?

The royal family was compelled to move from Versailles to Paris, marking a shift in power to the populace.

What shift occurred in the title of Louis XVI post-October Days?

He was changed to 'King of the French,' making him subject to constitutional law rather than divine right.