The French Revolution

A comprehensive set of vocabulary flashcards based on significant terms and concepts related to the French Revolution.

French Revolution

A period of social and political upheaval in France from 1789 until 1799, which led to the end of monarchy and the rise of democracy.

Declaration of the Rights of Man

A fundamental document of the French Revolution that outlines the rights of individuals and the principles of state authority.

National Assembly

The elected legislative body in France during the French Revolution, formed by members of the Third Estate.

Estates General

A legislative assembly representing the three estates of French society: clergy, nobility, and commoners.

Old Regime

The social and political system in France prior to the Revolution, characterized by monarchy and feudal privileges.

Marseillaise

The national anthem of France, which originated as a revolutionary song during the French Revolution.

Tennis Court Oath

A vow made by members of the Third Estate in 1789 not to disband until they had created a new constitution for France.

Sans-culottes

Radical working-class men and women who officially supported the revolution and wore long trousers instead of the knee breeches worn by the aristocracy.

Reign of Terror

A period during the French Revolution characterized by extreme political repression and mass executions of perceived enemies.

Robespierre

A leading figure of the French Revolution known for his role during the Reign of Terror and as a member of the Jacobin party.

Abolition of Slavery

The legal end of slavery in French colonies, enacted during the revolutionary government but later reversed under Napoleon.

Guillotine

A device used for carrying out executions by beheading during the French Revolution, symbolizing the revolutionary justice system.

Olympe de Gouges

A feminist voice during the French Revolution, known for her Declaration of the Rights of Woman and Citizen.

Political clubs

Organizations where citizens gathered to discuss and plan actions related to government policies, including the Jacobins.

Citoyen/Citoyenne

French terms meaning 'citizen' used to promote equality and solidarity among people post-revolution.

Constitution of 1791

The first constitution of France which established a constitutional monarchy and delineated the powers of government.

Third Estate

The social class in France composed of commoners who bore the burden of taxation and had few political rights.

Estates System

The hierarchical social structure of pre-revolutionary France, divided into three estates: clergy, nobility, and commoners.

Social contract

A theory associated with philosophers like Rousseau that emphasizes the agreement among individuals to form a society.

Liberty, Equality, Fraternity

The motto of the French Revolution, epitomizing its core ideals.

Jacobins

A radical political group during the French Revolution that caused significant change and was led by figures such as Robespierre.

Claude De L'Ami du Peuple

A revolutionary newspaper published by Jean-Paul Marat, advocating for the rights of the people.