Big France Study Guide

What was the biggest social problem for France in the 16th century?

The growing conflict between the Catholics and the Huguenots.

Who was the king that appeased the Catholics and protected the Huguenots by converting to Catholicism?

King Henry IV.

What declaration of religious tolerance was issued by Henry IV?

The Edict of Nantes.

Which minister was appointed to strengthen the power of the monarchy due to Louis XIII’s weakness?

Cardinal Richelieu.

What idea expressed doubt towards the church, stating that nothing can be known for certain?

Skepticism.

Who became the true ruler of France when Louis XIV began his reign at age 4?

Cardinal Mazarin.

Why did the majority of French citizens hate Cardinal Mazarin?

He raised taxes and strengthened the central government.

How did the nobles’ riots affect Louis XIV's future attitude towards them?

He swore to be strong so they would never threaten him again.

How did Louis XIV secure economic brilliance for France?

By making France completely self-sufficient.

What war did England, Austria, and Portugal fight to keep the thrones of France and Spain separated?

The War of the Spanish Succession.

What three major positive effects did King Louis XIV have on France?

France became a leader in art, literature, and military strength in Europe.

How did King Louis XIV help push France into revolution?

Constant warfare and the construction of the palace of Versailles caused debt and resentment from high taxes on the poor.

What was the political and social system of the 1700s in France called?

The Old Regime.

Who were in the 1st and 2nd estates in France's Old Regime?

The Roman Catholic Church and the Rich Nobles.

What groups were in the 3rd estate of France’s Old Regime?

Bourgeoisie, urban workers, and peasants.

What three major issues led to the revolution?

New ideas of government, serious economic problems, and weak leadership.

What was formed by the 3rd estate to push laws and reforms?

The National Assembly.

What was the refusal of the National Assembly to leave the General-Estates called?

Tennis Court Oath.

What was considered a great symbolic act of revolution?

The Fall of the Bastille.

What document gave French citizens new rights and protected their liberties?

The Declaration of the Rights of Man.

How did France pay off their huge debts?

By taking over church lands and selling them.

What two things did the new French constitution create?

Constitutional monarchy and legislative assembly.

Why did Austria and Prussia want Louis XIV back on the throne?

To restore him as an absolute monarch.

What new governing body was established in 1791 that abolished monarchy?

The National Convention.

What radical group controlled the National Convention and tried Louis XIV for treason?

The Jacobin Club.

What was the execution machine popularized by the French government?

The guillotine.

What was the period Max Robespierre governed France known as?

Reign of Terror.

How did the Jacobins view religion?

As old-fashioned and dangerous.

How did the Reign of Terror end?

With the fall of Max Robespierre.

What new governing body was formed in 1795?

A middle-class power in a two-house legislature.

What event made Napoleon a hero?

Defending delegates against attackers.

What sudden seizure of power did Napoleon perform?

Coup de 18 Brumaire/Coup d etat.

What were Napoleon’s first two successful tasks as dictator?

Fixing the economy and establishing a banking system.

How did Napoleon first try to please the French people?

By signing an agreement with the church.

What did Napoleon consider his greatest work that eliminated injustices?

The Napoleonic Code.

Why were the French colonies profitable for Napoleon?

He sold much of the western colonies.

Why did Napoleon sell his colonies?

To raise money for war and punish the British.

What was the result of Napoleon’s victories over Austria, Prussia, and Russia?

They became devoted to sugar production.

What was Napoleon’s first loss in battle?

The battle of Trafalgar.

When was the French Empire at its greatest?

1807-1812.

What was Napoleon’s first mistake that led to his downfall?

Britain's blockade weakened Europe's economy.

What was Napoleon’s second major mistake called?

The Peninsula War.

What are small groups of fighters using ambush tactics called?

Guerillas.

What was Napoleon’s biggest mistake leading to his demise?

Invading Russia.

What tactic did Russia use to wear down French forces?

Scorched Earth Policy.

What were the major causes of death for French forces in Russia?

Skirmishes, wounds, exhaustion, hunger, and cold.

What happened to Napoleon after he surrendered following the attacks from Europe?

He was exiled to an island.

What was Napoleon’s second reign in France called?

The Hundred Days.

What was Napoleon’s last battle?

The Battle of Waterloo.

What was the series of meetings after Napoleon called?

The Congress of Vienna.

Who was the most influential person at the Congress of Vienna?

Klemens Von Metternich.

What were Metternich’s goals at the Congress of Vienna?

Prevent future French aggression and restore stability.

Which nations were present at the Congress of Vienna?

Russia, Prussia, Austria, Great Britain, and France.

What principle agreed to return royal families to their thrones?

Principles of Legitimacy.

What were the fears of the Congress despite achieving peace for 40 years?

The ideas of liberty and equality encouraging revolution.

What used Christian principles to combat revolution?

Holy Alliance.

What countries were involved in the Holy Alliance?

Russia, Austria, and Prussia.

What ensured nations would help one another if revolutions broke out?

Concert of Europe.