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The French Revolution started in 1789 and lasted over a decade, which shaped the course of history. It was a rebellion against the monarch of France, seeking radical transformations in their society.
In this article we will talk about the causes that led to the French Revolution and its impacts afterward on the French Society.
The French Revolution, which began in 1789, was a watershed moment in French history. Demanding liberty, equality, and fraternity, the populace rose up in opposition to the absolute monarchy. Economic hardships, social inequality, and Enlightenment ideas fueled the revolution.
The monarchy was overthrown, the Reign of Terror began, and Napoleon Bonaparte rose to power as a result. The revolution had a far-reaching impact, inspiring global revolutionary movements and determining the evolution of contemporary nation-states.
Causes of French Revolution
Economic Hardships
During the late 18th century, France faced several serious economic problems which pressured the locals heavily. The country was under huge debts because of heavy expansion on wars and luxurious living of the monarchy.
All the burden of taxes fall on the Third Estate, where common people and peasants live, on the other hand nobles and clergy enjoy the tax exemption making things highly unfair for the Third Estate.
The situation worsened because of the poor harvest leading to an increase in price for food which caused widespread hunger and poverty. While the poor were struggling the nobles were enjoying their life.
Social Inequality
The French Society was divided into three estates. The First Estate consisted of the clergy, the Second Estate comprised the nobility, and the Third Estate included everyone else, from merchants and artisans to peasants and laborers.
The first and second estate held wealth and power enjoying various privileges while the third estate faced various disadvantages. The Third Estate had limited political representation and they had to bear the burden of financial troubles for the nation.
Financial Crisis
France was facing a financial crisis during the time because of its involvement in the American revolution draining countries' finances and the nobles' fractions enjoying their lavish lifestyles, The Third Estate had to face heavier taxes which intensified people's anger.
The King’s inability to resolve the people's grievances eroded their trust in him. The lost trust paved the path for the rebellion.
Impacts of French Revolution
End of Monarchy
The French Revolution resulted in complete abolishment of the traditional monarchy of the society for which it was begun. The King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette were executed and then France officially became a republic.
It led to the shift in power from a single ruler to a national assembly represented as the will of people.
Reign of Terror
The fight between the rebels and the ongoing ruling system was very gruesome where a lot of people lost their lives. During the revolution the government, led by Maximilien Robespierre and the Committee of Public Safety.
They used some extreme methods to hold the rebellion, those who were perceived as the enemies were captured and executed by guillotine.
It was done to put fear and terror within the people of society but it was taken as a disregard of an individual right which led to criticism and resulted in the downfall of Robespierre.
Rise of Napoleon Bonaparte
The French Revolution is the main reason why Napoleon came into power, he paved his path as a skilled military general. He became a very prominent figure during the chaos and soon declared himself as the Emperor Napoleon I.
After gaining power he introduced many reforms such as the Napoleon Code which promoted the equality and individual rights of people. But his ambitions to expand his land led to wars for years in Europe keeping the continent unsettled.
Spread of Revolutionary Ideas
The French Revolution spread its ideals everywhere after its success. It motivated people to challenge the oppressive system that was prevailing and make changes in it.
The ideals of liberty, equality and fraternity resonated with the people of other nations. The revolutionary spirit of France left a lasting impact on the global landscape, shaping the course of history for years to come.
Final Thoughts
The French Revolution was one of the greatest revolts that inspired others too. It marked an absolute end to monarchy and the rise of a new representative republic system. Rise of Napoleon was also one of the major impacts of the revolution.
The Ideals of the French Revolution had inspired others to stand up against the suppression and unjust ongoing system in different nations.
In the end, I would like to say the French Revolution was a very influential revolution that gave might to other peoples too. It led to the development of modern nation-states and left an enduring impact on the course of history.
Written By Shivam Sharma
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