Untitled Flashcards Set

Estates Genera: 

The Estates General was a legislative body in France comprised of representatives from the three social classes: the clergy, the nobility, and the commoners. It was called upon by the king to approve new taxes or make other decisions affecting the realm. 

Sans-Culottes

The Sans-Culottes were a radical group of lower-class citizens in France during the French Revolution who played a significant role in the overthrow of the monarchy and the establishment of the First French Republic. They were known for their revolutionary fervor, wearing trousers instead of knee-breeches, and advocating for social and political change. 

Bourgeoisie

The bourgeoisie were the middle class in France during the French Revolution, consisting of merchants, professionals, and landowners. They played a key role in financing the revolution and eventually rose to power in the new government. 

National Assembly

The National Assembly is a legislative body that represents the citizens of a country and is responsible for creating and passing laws. It is typically made up of elected officials who debate and vote on proposed legislation to govern the nation. 

Tennis Court Oath

The Tennis Court Oath was a pivotal event during the French Revolution in which members of the Third Estate pledged to not disband until a new constitution was established. This oath symbolized the defiance of the people against the absolute monarchy and laid the foundation for further revolutionary actions. 

Bastille

The storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, marked the beginning of the French Revolution as citizens rebelled against the oppressive monarchy. This event led to widespread unrest and ultimately the overthrow of the monarchy in France.

Napoleonic Code 

The Napoleonic Code, also known as the French Civil Code, was established in 1804 under Napoleon Bonaparte's rule. It served as a comprehensive legal system that influenced civil law codes in many countries around the world. 

Declaration of the Rights of Man and the Citizen

The Declaration of the Rights of Man and the Citizen was a fundamental document of the French Revolution, adopted in 1789. It outlined the rights and freedoms of individuals, inspired by Enlightenment principles, and continues to be a cornerstone of modern human rights. 

Identify at least 3 causes of the French Revolution.

Three causes of the French Revolution were social inequality, economic hardship, and political discontent. These factors created a volatile environment that ultimately led to the overthrow of the monarchy and the establishment of a republic in France

Why would the French people welcome Napoleon?

The French people welcomed Napoleon due to his military successes, which brought stability and glory to France. Additionally, Napoleon's reforms aimed at improving the economy and legal system were seen as beneficial to the country. 

Who was the leader of the Jacobins?

The leader of the Jacobins was Maximilien Robespierre, a key figure in the French Revolution known for his radical views and role in the Reign of Terror. Robespierre's leadership was characterized by his commitment to promoting revolutionary ideals and enforcing strict measures to protect the revolution from its enemies. 

What was the Reign of Terror?

The Reign of Terror was a period during the French Revolution where Robespierre and the Committee of Public Safety executed thousands of perceived enemies of the revolution in order to maintain control and eliminate opposition. This violent period lasted from 1793 to 1794 and resulted in widespread fear and bloodshed throughout France

Which French king was ruling at the time of the French Revolution? Who was the queen?

 The French king ruling at the time of the French Revolution was King Louis XVI. His queen was Marie Antoinette, an Austrian princess who became a symbol of extravagance and excess during a time of economic hardship in France. 

What was the “Old Regime”?

The "Old Regime" refers to the political and social system in France before the French Revolution, characterized by an absolute monarchy, feudal privileges, and a rigid class structure. This system was marked by inequality, corruption, and inefficiency, leading to widespread discontent among the French population.

What were the Three Estates and who were they?

The Three Estates were the three social classes in France before the Revolution: the First Estate (clergy), the Second Estate (nobility), and the Third Estate (commoners). Each estate had different rights and privileges, with the Third Estate comprising the majority of the population but having the least amount of power and influence. 

What happened at the Battle of Trafalgar and the Battle of Waterloo?

The Battle of Trafalgar was a naval engagement fought between the British Royal Navy and the combined fleets of France and Spain in 1805, resulting in a decisive victory for the British under Admiral Horatio Nelson. The Battle of Waterloo, on the other hand, was a land battle fought in 1815 between the French forces under Napoleon Bonaparte and the Seventh Coalition led by the Duke of Wellington, resulting in Napoleon's final defeat and exile.