The French Revolution

What was the feudal system's structure in pre-revolutionary France?

France was divided into three social classes: the clergy, nobility, and everyone else.

Who ruled France for 72 years and famously said 'L’état c’est moi'?

King Louis XIV, known as The Sun King.

What building did King Louis XIV build and move the royal court to in 1682?

The Palace of Versailles.

What financial issues did King Louis XIV's actions cause?

His actions depleted France's finances, causing a deficit that doubled.

What was the reputation of King Louis XV during his reign?

He was seen as lazy, corrupt, and incompetent.

What did King Louis XV famously say about his legacy?

“Après nous, le déluge” - After us, the flood.

What was the primary focus of the Enlightenment?

An intellectual movement emphasizing human rights, society, and government.

What was a salon in the context of the Enlightenment?

A meeting of intellectuals to discuss new ideas, often hosted by women known as salonnières.

Who advocated for the idea of religious toleration and challenged divine right?

John Locke.

What is the concept of 'tabula rasa' proposed by John Locke?

The idea that individuals are born as a blank slate and their experiences shape their knowledge.

What did Voltaire fight against in society?

Corrupt officials, idle aristocrats, and sought freedom of religion and speech.

What did Montesquieu argue about government structure?

He argued for the separation of powers to prevent the abuse of individual rights.

What is Rousseau's view on the state of nature?

He believed individuals were originally good but became corrupted by civilization.

What important idea did Hobbes introduce about human nature in a 'state of nature'?

He believed humans would descend into chaos without a central authority.

What did the Enlightenment thinkers believe about progress?

Humankind could make progress and improve through reason.

What was Beccaria's stance on criminal justice?

He advocated for a quick trial, no torture, and the abolition of capital punishment.

What was Wollstonecraft's main argument in her writings?

She argued for women's education and the need for women to enter male-dominated fields.

What caused King Louis XVI to become king at a young age?

He became king after his father's death and due to the deaths of his older brother.

What was the public perception of Louis XVI upon his accession to the throne?

He was seen as too young and inexperienced to lead.

What challenge did Marie Antoinette face as a newcomer to French royalty?

She was unfamiliar with royal rituals and people's expectations due to her Austrian background.

What historic event did the Enlightenment thinkers influence in France?

The French Revolution.

Where did the concept of checks and balances originate?

Montesquieu's philosophy about dividing government powers.

What was the significance of the Franco-Austrian alliance?

It was necessary for France and Austria, historic enemies, to ally through the marriage of Louis and Marie Antoinette.

What was one of Rousseau's key contributions to education?

He believed in child-centered education and protecting children from societal corruption.

How did Enlightenment ideas challenge the ancien régime?

They promoted reason, liberty, and the potential for societal improvement.

What influenced Marie Antoinette's upbringing?

She was raised in the Austrian court as the 15th of 16 children.

What did Voltaire's writings contribute to modern society?

He laid the groundwork for modern concepts of freedom of speech and expression.

What did Beccaria argue against in his legal philosophy?

He opposed common abuses of justice and emphasized fair treatment for the accused.

What was the relationship between King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette?

They were married in a strategic alliance to strengthen ties between France and Austria.

What did the Enlightenment thinkers desire in terms of human rights?

They sought to establish ideals of reason, justice, and individual liberty.

Who was known as 'Louis the Well-Beloved'?

King Louis XV.

What impact did scandalous affairs have on King Louis XV's reputation?

They contributed to his declining reputation and loss of public support.

What role did the parlements play during King Louis XVI's reign?

They challenged royal authority and contributed to public discontent.

What was King Louis XVI's reaction at his accession to the throne?

He expressed concern and felt unprepared for leadership.

Why did Marie Antoinette receive criticism from the French public?

Due to her foreign Austrian background and lavish lifestyle in a time of crisis.

What was the perception of the monarchy in France before the revolution?

The monarchy was viewed as weak and unpopular due to financial struggles and societal inequality.

What belief did human rights thinkers like Rousseau and Locke share?

The importance of individual rights and the consent of the governed in forming governments.