French Revolution: The Moderate stage

These flashcards cover important terms and concepts from the French Revolution, providing definitions for key historical figures, events, and political structures.

Who is Emmanuel Joseph Sieyes?

Emmanuel Joseph Sieyes was a French priest and political writer known for his influential pamphlet 'What is the Third Estate?' published in 1789. In this work, he argued that the Third Estate, which consisted of the common people of France, was the true strength of the nation and should have greater political power. Sieyes' arguments played a significant role in the lead-up to the French Revolution by highlighting the inequalities in the Estates-General and advocating for the rights and representation of the Third Estate.

Estates-General

The legislative assembly in France consisting of three estates: the clergy (1st), the nobility (2nd), and the common people (3rd).

National Assembly

Formed by the Third Estate on June 17, 1789, claiming to represent the people of France, marking a key moment in the revolution.

Tennis Court Oath

A vow made on June 20, 1789, by members of the Third Estate to not disband until a new constitution was established for France.

This is the begining of the french revolution.

Girondins

A moderate political group in the French Revolution that initially opposed extensive political rights for the working class.

Jacobins

A radical political group that aimed for a republic and supported significant social reforms during the French Revolution.

What is the Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen?

The Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen is a fundamental document of the French Revolution, proclaimed on August 26, 1789. It establishes the individual and collective rights of all citizens as universal and inalienable. Key principles outlined in the declaration include liberty, equality, fraternity, and the sovereignty of the people. The document asserts that all men are born free and equal in rights, and it emphasizes the importance of law as an expression of the general will. The declaration also laid the groundwork for a new social contract and influenced future democratic ideals worldwide

October Days

A series of events beginning on October 5, 1789, when women led a march to Versailles demanding bread and ultimately brought the royal family back to Paris.

Civil Constitution of the Clergy

A law passed on July 12, 1790, that restructured the Catholic Church in France, requiring priests to swear loyalty to the state.

Constitution of 1791

The first written constitution of France establishing a constitutional monarchy with a separation of powers and defined laws.

Who is Mirabeau?

Mirabeau was a prominent leader and orator during the early phases of the French Revolution. He was a key figure in the National Assembly, where he advocated for constitutional monarchy and the rights of the Third Estate. Mirabeau's eloquent speeches rallied support for revolutionary ideas and helped bridge the gap between differing factions within the assembly, aiming for a peaceful transition to a new government.

Maximilien de Robespierre

A key revolutionary leader known for his influence on the Committee of Public Safety and his role during the Reign of Terror.

Jacobin Club

A political club during the French Revolution known for its radical stance and influence in the government.

Bread Riots

Popular disturbances caused by food shortages and rising bread prices, leading to significant social unrest during the Revolution.

Bastille

A Parisian prison stormed on July 14, 1789, symbolizing the beginning of the violence that came from the revolutionaires and a stand against royal authority.