Tag Archives: France
The Origins of the French Revolution
This revision podcast presents the background to the French Revolution. Beginning with the impact of the Enlightenment on 18th Century Europe, it goes on to examine a variety of factors that led to the Revolution. Long-term issues that are covered include the Estates System, the emergence of the bourgeoisie and the changing economy, taxation and financial problems, and the effect of the population increase. Shorter term causes that are explained include the impact of King Louis XVI, the Assembly of the Notables, the Estates General, and the Tennis Court Oath. Factors are explained thematically to make it easier to organise ideas during revision, and it’s hoped that this will in turn help you create a well-structured answer.
What was life like in pre-Revolutionary France?
First-hand accounts from 18th Century writer Arthur Young, who travelled through France in the years before the revolution. Excellent overview of the inequality of life between the French peasantry compared to that of the nobility. Extract from Curriculum Bites.
The Tennis Court Oath – 20th June 1789
On the 20th June 1789 at Versailles in France, the National Assembly swore the Tennis Court Oath in which they vowed not to separate until a written constitution had been established for the country.
The first phase of the French Revolution, 1789 – 91
This revision podcast is designed for students studying the French Revolution. Beginning with the storming of the Bastille on 14 July 1789, this episode explores the first phase of the revolution up to the summer of 1791. Beginning with the August Decrees and the Declaration of the Rights of Man, it goes on to explore the challenges faced by the Constituent Assembly. The terms of the Civil Constitution of the Clergy are explained before going on to present an overview of the terms of the Constitution published in September. The podcast then explores the challenges to the revolution including the emigrées, divisions between the Jacobins and the Girondins, and the role of foreign powers. The episode concludes with an overview of the Flight to Varennes and the demonstration at the Champs de Mars.
Short overview of the storming of the Bastille, 14 July 1789
The morning of the 14th July 1789 saw the beginning of the French Revolution when Parisian revolutionaries stormed the Bastille, a large fortress, prison and ammunition store that symbolised everything that was wrong with the monarchy.
The Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen
The National Constituent Assembly of France adopted the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen.
