French Revolution Timeline

1774

• Louis XVI ascends to the throne

1778

• France’s involvement in the American War of Independence begins, causing financial strain and increasing debt.

1781

• Publication of Necker’s Compte Rendu

1787

• Assembly of Notables is convened.

1788

• Revolt of the Paris Parlement (and other regional parlements) over royal reforms.

• “Cahiers de doléances” drawn up.

• Publication of Abbé Sieyès’ What is the Third Estate?

1789

• Calling and opening of the Estates-General.
• Defections of clergy to the Third Estate.
• Formation of the National Assembly.
• Tennis Court Oath.
• King accepts the National Assembly (clergy & nobility join).
• Storming of the Bastille.
• Abolition of feudal privileges (Night of 4 August).
• Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen.
• Women’s March on Versailles.

1790

• Reforms begin under the National Constituent Assembly — reorganisations of Church, administrative reforms etc.

• Civil constitution of the clergy and the clerical oath

1791

• Flight to Varennes (Louis XVI’s attempt to escape).
• Legislative Assembly is established under the new constitution.
• The constitution of 1791 is ratified.

1792

• War with Austria begins.

• Overthrow of the monarchy; the monarchy abolished; the First French Republic established.

1793

• Trial and execution of Louis XVI.
• Rise of the Committee of Public Safety.
• Onset of the Reign of Terror.
• Execution of Marie Antoinette.

1794

End of the Reign of Terror: Robespierre overthrown and executed (Thermidorian Reaction).

1795

• The Directory is established, replacing the National Convention. This marks a shift to a more moderate government; also many wars, internal challenges.