The French Revolution, the Rise and Fall of Napoleon, and the Congress of Vienna

Absolutism: The monarch held total, unquestioned control over the government.

Cultural Artifact — Sedan Chair: Used by upper classes; depicted the elegance of the nobility.

First Estate: High-Ranking Clergy, exempt from state taxes, managed the education system, and held significant privileges.

Second Estate: Nobility, also exempt from taxes and monopolizing top appointments.

Third Estate: Unprivileged majority, comprising bourgeoise, city workers, and peasants, faced heavy taxation without privileges.

Systemic Injustice: Socio-political inequality was a key cause of the French Revolution.

Ideological Influences: The spread of pop Enlightenment ideas contributed to revolutionary sentiments.

Divine Right of Kings: Monarchical power was justified by divine sanction, discouraging questioning of rulers.

Estates-General: Convened on May 5, 1789; representation was heavily skewed against the Third Estate, leading to conflict over voting procedures.

Tennis Court Oath: The National Assembly vowed to not separate until a constitution was created after being locked out of their meeting hall.

Storming of the Bastille: Symbolized the beginning of the revolution; a popular uprising against royal tyranny.

Women's March on Versailles: Demonstrated the populace's pressure on the monarchy, leading to significant reforms.

Maximillian:

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