West Civ T1 Q3

What does the French Revolution signify in European history?

It marks the beginning of modern history in Europe and is a major turning point in political and social history.

What are the three estates of the Old Regime in French society?

The First Estate (clergy), the Second Estate (nobles), and the Third Estate (commoners).

Who comprised the bourgeoisie during the French Revolution?

The middle class, including merchants, industrialists, bankers, and professionals, making up about 8% of the population.

What was the Tennis Court Oath?

An oath taken by the Third Estate declaring they would not disband until France had a constitution.

What event marked the end of royal authority in Paris?

The storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789.

What was the purpose of the Declaration of the Rights of Man and the Citizen?

To outline basic liberties and affirm that men are born free and remain equal in rights.

What was the Civil Constitution of the Clergy?

A 1790 law that restructured the Catholic Church in France, requiring clergy to be elected and paid by the government.

How did the National Assembly respond to the king’s attempts to resist reforms?

They issued the Tennis Court Oath and declared themselves the National Assembly.

What was the outcome of the National Convention established in 1792?

It voted to abolish the monarchy and established a republic.

What were the main factors leading to the decline of the Committee of Public Safety?

Control over the excesses of the Reign of Terror and military victories against foreign enemies reduced the need for the Terror.

What was the significance of the Thermidorian Reaction?

It marked the end of the Reign of Terror and the Committee of Public Safety, leading to more conservative governance.

What was the aftermath of the execution of Louis XVI?

The First Coalition formed against revolutionary France, increasing opposition to the revolution.

What did Olympe de Gouges advocate for during the revolution?

Equal rights for women, including political rights.

What major change occurred as a result of the revolution regarding slavery?

In 1794, the National Convention abolished slavery in all French colonies.

What characterized the period of the Directory after the revolution?

Stagnation, corruption, and reliance on the military to maintain power.

What caused the Paris Commune to rise in August 1792?

Radical leaders formed a city government to overthrow the existing government amid unrest and economic issues.

What tensions existed between the Girondins and the Mountain during the revolution?

The Girondins were more moderate and wanted to preserve the king, while the Mountain (Jacobins) demanded radical changes and the king's execution.

What was the outcome of the Reign of Terror?

Nearly 50,000 people were killed, including perceived enemies of the revolution.

How did the revolution influence the Catholic Church in France?

The National Assembly seized church lands and reformed the church's structure, leading to a conflict between revolutionary ideals and traditional religion.