Social Studies 20-1 - French Revolution Quiz Study Guide

Old Regime

France’s old system of government before the Revolution, featuring a king and a strict class structure with special privileges for nobles and clergy.

National Assembly

An assembly composed of representatives to challenge the king's authority and push for reforms during the French Revolution.

Monarchy

A system of government where a king or queen rules, often with absolute power.

Declaration of the Rights of Man

A key document from 1789 outlining basic human rights like freedom and equality.

Estates General

A meeting of representatives from three social classes: clergy, nobility, and commoners.

Divine Right of Kings

The belief that kings derive their power from God, requiring no accountability to the people.

What economic factor contributed to the French Revolution?

The American War of Independence, which led to financial bankruptcy for France.

What social factor was significant in the French Revolution?

The existence of the three estates: clergy, nobility, and commoners.

What key event symbolizes the beginning of the French Revolution?

The Storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789.

Who were the Jacobins?

A radical political group that led the revolution and supported the Reign of Terror.

What was the Tennis Court Oath?

A vow by the Third Estate not to leave until a new constitution was written, taken on June 20, 1789.

Reign of Terror

A violent phase of the French Revolution from 1793-1794, characterized by mass executions led by Robespierre.

Who was King Louis XVI?

The last king of France before the revolution, executed for failing to address the people's needs.

What impact did the French Revolution have on nationalism?

It shifted loyalty from regions and social classes to the nation, promoting unity and citizen rights.

The First Estate

The clergy, who were privileged and exempt from many taxes.

The Second Estate

The nobility, who had privileges but faced growing resentment from the Third Estate.

The Third Estate

The common people, including peasants and the bourgeoisie, striving for rights and equality.

Bourgeoisie

The middle class within the Third Estate, important for advocating for change.

What did the cartoon about social hierarchy criticize?

The exploitation of the working class by the upper classes.