THE FRENCH REVOLUTION

The French Revolution

The French Revolution

French Revolution

The French Revolution is considered a "watershed" or turning point in modern world history. It lasted from 1789 to 1799, provides a classic example of how a society united to overthrow a tyrant. During this short time period, a bloody revolt by the peasant population toppled the royalty and aristocrats from power and initiated a short period in which the political system was drastically reformed. New political ideas and philosophies were introduced, many of which are still used in the modern-day political establishment. The storming of the Bastille by an angry mob of peasants began a chain of events that triggered the beginning of a whole new phase in French history. (Eisenstein 1965)

In the late 1700s, French society was in a period of decay. While the wealthy nobles and aristocrats lived lavish and extravagant lives, the peasants, who made up the majority of the population, where barely able to get by. (Hampson 1988)

While all of France was affected by the results of the revolution, most of the major activity occurred within the bounds of Paris. With an influential voice in Europe as well, France was truly a key player both politically and economically. However, it was dissent within the populace that eventually brought the monarchy to its knees.

Ways in Which It Affected Development

The greatest effects of the French Revolution around Europe seem to be the freedom itself. The revolution was about freedom, where the many wanted the right to be free from the few. Also the revolution had great effects on the whole politics of Europe. Since all the nations, except France, were using feudalism so they had to go against France to protect their so called “divine right”. In addition, the trade routes through France were blocked since the revolutionaries won't let the countries with feudalism go through their territory. (Palmer 1964)

In recent days we might think that executing the king and bringing democracy in to France was a good thing, but think about the situation in France. All the nations around them served their king and respected him. No other nation had democracy but used almost a dictatorship, which then thought it was okay. Also the democracy did not help them to get out of their poor economic right away but took some time. They were given more rights but I'm not sure about what they were able to say to the ...