The French Revolution

What significant social group contributed to the growth of tension in France during the Revolution?

The middle class, which was expanding and had varying interests compared to the nobility and clergy.

What were the three Estates in France prior to the Revolution?

The First Estate (Clergy), the Second Estate (Nobility), and the Third Estate (Everyone else).

What was the role of the First Estate in France's society?

Controlled everyday life, largest landowners, paid no taxes, and held significant privileges.

What were the two types of clergy in the First Estate?

Upper clergy who had noble status and lower clergy who did not.

What tax was the Second Estate exempt from?

The Taille, a broad tax imposed on the Third Estate.

What percentage of the French population did the Third Estate represent?

98% of the population.

What were some of the privileges of the nobility in the Second Estate?

Titles such as Dukes, Counts, and Barons.

What was one major economic challenge faced by the Third Estate before the Revolution?

They paid the vast majority of taxes despite being the largest social group.

What significant event took place on July 14, 1789?

The Storming of the Bastille, symbolizing the beginning of the French Revolution.

What document proclaimed the rights of citizens during the Revolution?

The Declaration of the Rights of Man.

What did the Civil Constitution of the Clergy do?

It placed the Catholic Church under state authority and required clergy to swear allegiance to the state.

What was the fate of King Louis XVI?

He was executed by guillotine on January 21, 1793.

What was initiated by the Committee of Public Safety during the Revolution?

The Reign of Terror, aimed at controlling the revolution and prosecuting enemies.

Who was the infamous leader that rose to power after the Revolution?

Napoleon Bonaparte.

What mistake did Napoleon make during his campaign against Russia?

He underestimated the harsh winter and was unprepared for the resulting campaign losses.

What was the outcome of the Battle of Nations in 1813?

Allied forces defeated Napoleon, leading to his abdication and exile.

What marked the end of the Napoleonic Wars?

The Battle of Waterloo, where Napoleon was ultimately defeated.

What legacy did the French Revolution leave on modern political structure?

It contributed to the emergence of popular sovereignty and the upheaval of the medieval social hierarchy.