Abstract The paper looks at the modern as well as older interpretations of the FrenchRevolution to determine to the extent of the impact that the Revolution had on the French Nation. The paper determines the newer perspectives position that the Revolution had less to do with the lasting French identity, and that the political aspects of the Revolution are central to the French Nation.
From the Paper "The French Revolution lasted from 1789 through 1799, and was sparked by the varying views regarding reform as held by the French people. The French Revolution left certain lasting effects upon the French Nation, such as elements of the written constitution, the Code Napoleon and a sense of loyalty to their land. Thus, the claim that the French Revolution constructed the French Nation could in part be shown as true as it certainly altered the mentality of the French people. However, although for many years a stable interpretation had been achieved pertain to the Revolution; these have been lately abandoned in an attempt to view this event from new social, intellectual, cultural and political dimensions."
Abstract The time before the FrenchRevolution was called the Old Regime. Under the Old Regime France was a nation with a large population, a powerful army and a glamorous court system. Paris, the capital, was the center of culture. Educated people in all of Europe spoke French, read French literature and copied French customs. France seemed to be the leading nation in a glorious age. Nevertheless, according to this paper, the FrenchRevolution actually had roots deep in 18th century French society. More specifically, the paper explains that, in spite of the political, economic, and military power France held under the Old Regime, the stability of the Old Regime was already at risk because of serious troubles brewing beneath the surface that had been ignored for too long.
Abstract This junior level paper is on "How did the American Revolution contribute to the outbreak of the Frenchrevolution?" It includes that what independent factors propelled the French to the revolution? Sources.
Tags: AMERICAN STUDIES AND HISTORY / AMERICAN REVOLUTION, american frenchrevolution
Abstract This essay describes and analyzes the social forces: economic, politcal, and ideological, that caused the FrenchRevolution. The paper emphasizes the inevitability of radical change in 1789.
From the Paper "It is clear that the ancient regime of late 18th century France was ripe for radical change, and I believe the conditions present in French society in 1789 did necessarily point toward a revolutionary solution. Although Owen Connelly points out that contemporaries judged the Revolution a great surprise, I believe that if they had understood the nature and variety of social forces "in play" during that particular period they would have recognized the approach of revolution. This essay will examine social forces: economic, political, and ideological, and evaluate how they combined to create the necessity of revolution in France in 1789."
Abstract This paper argues that there were multiple factors which caused the FrenchRevolution. It examines the political and royal rule at the time as well as the terrible state of the economy. It also shows the desperate state the people were in and how many of them had nothing more to lose.
From the Paper "The French Revolution did not stem from one single cause. It stemmed from a combination of factors that had been building for quite some time. The country was ready for change and on July 14, 1789, tensions exploded into what later became known as Bastille Day. This began a series of changes which eventually led to the downfall of the French Ruling Class as it was previously known."
Tags: rule, french, revolution, bastille, louis, marie, antoinette, france
Abstract This essay examines the role of the farming peasantry of France in pushing forward the FrenchRevolution. What grievances and suffering had the peasants endured that led to open revolt in 1789, and what revolutionary responses did they take? While not representative of the political or intellectual strength that provoked the FrenchRevolution, the peasant's role in toppling the old regime cannot be ignored. This essay describes and evaluates that role.
From the Paper "It should be said before beginning that during the initial struggle between the status quo and the other classes (aristocracy, bourgeoisie, workers), the peasants had played little or no role. In fact, they had literally no part in "provoking" the first responses and revolts, and before July, 14, 1789 there was scarcely any question of the peasants. Their grievances and complaints were of little interest to the National Assembly, in which they had no members (Lefebvre 131). Yet, if one examines the story of the French peasantry and evidence provided by Georges Lefebvre, it can be argued that they had had been suffering longer and had more to complain about than any of the other classes of French society and that their actions in July and August, 1789 were utterly crucial ones. In the end, it was the mass peasant uprising of 1789 that pushed forward the revolution, destroying the remnants of the manorial and feudal system, and finally bringing all the non-aristocratic social classes in France fully together in their efforts to topple the status quo."
Abstract The paper argues that a fundamental shift to a more i just society, with a beauracratic and rational culture, and a country with less oppression and more individual freedom and opportunity is what evolved out of the work of the first French revolutionaries, such asNapoleon Bonaparte. Napoleon did much to promote and advance the wide-ranging social, economic, and cultural changes that arose from the FrenchRevolution, and it is this legacy and its completion by Bonaparte that this essay focuses on. The principles are divided into several areas: religious, legal, educational, and economic, as well as comments on the institution of the military.
From the Paper "In addition, the seizure and sale of church lands was finally declared irrevocable and purchases of biens nationaux were guaranteed to the new property owners. The Church would never regain its unearned wealth and economic power. To put it simply, under the Concordat the Catholic Church was no longer an independent corporation within the state, but a body of salaried state servants dependent on the government."
Abstract This essay compares the American, English, and FrenchRevolutions. In doing so, the author examines the leaders of these revolutions and their motives. He also looks into the history behind the forces that drove the people to revolt in each case. With much discussion of military conflicts, consequences and societal impact of the revolts both before and after.
From the Paper "The American Revolution was started by people with strength and hope. The Americans were heavily taxed by the British without having any representation in government, and British troops were brought in to prevent rebellion. People like Samuel Adams, Patrick Henry, and Thomas Paine favored independence from the British and inspired many people to follow them, even though to more than half the colonists the idea of war was worse than British rule. Samuel Adams was a Harvard graduate and a master politician who constantly pushed for a confrontation with British authority. As a delegate to the Virginia Legislature, Patrick Henry advocated the repeal of the Stamp Act and in 1775 called for the use of Virginia's militia against England, comparing British rule to slavery for colonists. Thomas Paine published a pamphlet called "Common Sense" pointing out that colonists should separate from a repressive government; over 500,000 colonists bought the pamphlet and it inspired them to remain loyal to the revolution."
Abstract This paper examines how, during the FrenchRevolution, Robespierre suppressed the people's freedom in order to assert his power over France and how by doing so, he excessively punished anyone who opposed his regime's rules and regulations, which ultimately led to his downfall as many people fought to save France from falling into the hands of an evil dictator. It attempts to explain how cruel Robespierre and his colleagues treated the people, as well as some of the people's responses to these treatments. It also looks at the fall of Robespierre and his government as many people rose up to fight against his tyrannical, totalitarian dictatorship.
From the Paper "Some people were so sensitive to seeing these unjust trials and punishments inflicted on their fellow citizens that, in some cases, they would both cry and plead for the victim's mercy. For instance, when at the initial Tribunal, the first victim who was summoned before the judge was condemned to death for emigration, many people were both shocked and horrified. No one could possibly have imagined that a man who had done no harm to anyone would be sent off to the guillotine. The thought of a man being condemned to death for something that was not considered a crime struck the citizens in the court room as cruel, shameful, and extremely unjust."
Tags: paris, republic, revolution, guillotine, louis, death
Abstract This paper explains that the classes represented in the FrenchRevolution are (1) "The First Estate", which was the clergy, (2) "The Second Estate", which represented the nobility and (3) "The Third Estate" which was at the bottom of the hierarchical ladder, representing the poorer and lower classes of people in France. The author points out that no philosophies, either in whole or in part, actually caused the FrenchRevolution; but, because the philosophers of the Enlightenment attacked the established order and authority of any kind, their ideas helped to produce what can only be called a "revolutionary mentality". The paper concludes that the FrenchRevolution was a war of the classes: However, the lines are not clearly drawn dividing the classes; therefore, it is clear that the FrenchRevolution was a war of and a war within the social classes in the society of France.
Table of Contents
Statement of Thesis
Introduction
The Beginning of the Revolution Classes Represented in the FrenchRevolution First, Second and Third Estates Grow Dissatisfied with Their Lot
Americas' Influence on the Revolt of the French Effects of the Enlightenment in Relation to the FrenchRevolution Beliefs of the Revolutionaries
From the Paper "At the time of the French Revolution France was under the rule of an absolute monarchy and was a monarchy that was under the rule or reign of King Louis XIV (1643 - 1715). Louis XIV encouraged both trade and manufacture and centralized the country during this time period. The individuals represented by all three estates, The First, Second and Third Estate has grown dissatisfied with their lot in life for one reason or another. The main reason for the Nobility's dissatisfaction was the longing to regain the power that the monarchy had stripped from them. The peasant class as well as the bourgeoisie class was extremely unhappy over the system of taxation that operated in France and the Bourgeoisie resented deeply the privileges enjoyed by the Nobility class in France during that time period."
This paper discusses that the Age of Napoleon Bonaparte has its roots in the FrenchRevolution and that it was Napoleon Bonaparte who spread the teachings of the FrenchRevolution throughout Europe.
Abstract This paper explains that the FrenchRevolution ignited new ideas regarding equality, justice, freedom and the very nature of social interaction; but, ironically, it was a dictator, Napoleon, who perpetuated and spread many of these ideas. The paper points out that the Napoleonic Code, the introduction of liberal ideas to Egypt, and the beginning of the drive for the unification of Italy were all things that resulted from ideas derived from the FrenchRevolution that spread because of Napoleon and his rule. The author believes that the impact of the FrenchRevolution and Napoleon's dissemination of its ideas can be demonstrated by the fact that even after the defeat of Napoleon, none of the old European monarchies or regimes ever enjoyed the absolute power that they once held.
Table of Contents
Introduction
The FrenchRevolution Napoleon Early in the Revolution Quest for Power
Napoleon as a Ruler and Conqueror
The Tragedy of Napoleon's Life
The Legacy of Napoleon and the FrenchRevolution Conclusion
From the Paper "Napoleon is a tragic figure in that few have had so much and lost it all. From being the world's most powerful man to becoming a lonely exile must have been a bitter pill to swallow. Napoleon's life is also tragic in that so many people were fanatically loyal to him, yet his first love Josephine, was unfaithful to him and never provided the male heir that he so desperately wanted. But, the greater tragedy is the waste of Napoleon's talents. True, he achieved monumental military accomplishments, but his conquests were ephemeral; they did not last. Universally recognized as one of the great military minds, Napoleon was equally talented as an administrator. If he had turned his attention to these pursuits, he could have done so much lasting good. He was also a man of contradictions. Vain, arrogant, and ambitious, he loved himself, but he was not afraid to recognize and praise ability in others. He was ruthless when necessary, but he does not seem to have been driven by hate as some later dictators were. All in all, he still fascinates us today."
Abstract This paper examines how revolutionary changes in the leadership of 18th century France did not occur overnight or with some sudden spark of defiance by citizens. It looks at how the events and ideals that led to the FrenchRevolution were part of a gradual, yet dramatic, trend toward individualism, freedom, liberty, self-determination, and self-reliance, which had been evolving over years in Europe, and which would be called the Enlightenment. It examines and analyses the dynamics of the Enlightenment, and also those individuals who contributed to the growth of the Enlightenment and to the ultimate demise of the Monarchy, in terms of what affect it had on the FrenchRevolution.
Outline
Thesis
Introduction to the FrenchRevolution Social Issues leading up to the FrenchRevolution The Enlightenment's Historical Origins
The Scientific Revolution was one of the Engines Driving the Enlightenment
Michel de Montaigne, Charles Montesquieu and Rene Descartes
Enlightenment Heavyweights: Voltaire vs. Rousseau
Rousseau's Declaration of the Rights of Man (1789)
The Enlightenment's Direct Impact on the Revolution Conclusion
From the Paper "When the legitimate question is raised as to what role, if any, The Enlightenment played in the French Revolution, the best evidence from credible historic sources is that The Enlightenment did indeed play an important role in the transformation of key social and political dynamics leading up to and through the French Revolution. The trends in the early to middle 18th Century indicate that Europeans were in the midst of dramatic social change. For one, secularization was taking place: the Church was losing its once-powerful position; people were no longer true and total believers in the Church's dogma that citizens would be damned if they strayed to a place outside the boundaries of the Church's influence."
Abstract An analysis of the FrenchRevolution illustrates the role of the popular will in dictating its course of action. This paper explains how the Revolution began with the aim of establishing a constitutional monarchy via internal reorganization, but the initial actions of the National Assembly were immediately met with suspicion and criticism, paving the way for the first turning point in the Revolution, which involved division and radicalization of the political culture. It discusses that, as the public became increasingly active and radical, it eventually achieved power over the Convention with the demise of the Girondins, the second major turning point in the FrenchRevolution. After this, the Revolution's focus on preservation of the Republic and underclass concerns was expressed through hysteria and terror. The writer points out that the FrenchRevolution is a clear example of how revolutions are created and sustained by the people. Thus, in any historical analysis of a revolution, a consideration of the public will is an essential component for fully understanding the causes or the course of a revolution.
From the Paper "At the core of a revolution is the mass population that lends credibility to the revolutionary leaders. Thus, the popular will is a key element in understanding the course of any revolution. Specifically, during the French Revolution popular will forced the goals and methods of the National Assembly, which aimed to replace the absolute monarchy with a constitutional monarchy, to turn in many unpredicted directions. In the first major turning point of the revolution, the moderate goals of the National Assembly took a dramatic turn on June 20, 1791 when King Louis XVI fled to Varennes, confirming popular suspicions of an aristocratic plot and producing a radicalization of popular political culture. The popular will reached its pinnacle of power during the second major turning point of the Revolution, the demise of the Girondins. After this, the suspicious popular will was expressed through the ruling Jacobins and the Revolution turned hysteric. Although the popular will was not always sovereign during the French Revolution, the interaction of the public’s will with the governing deputies forced abrupt changes in the direction of the French Revolution and dictated the course it would take."
A study on whether the FrenchRevolution was a true revolution or not, through a discussion of revolutions in general and the FrenchRevolution in particular.
Abstract This paper examines the issues which can lead to a revolution, and illustrates how these issues were prevalent in France prior to the outbreak of the revolution. The paper outlines the social, economic and political problems in France in the years preceding the revolution. The writer also explains that through all the horror and bloodshed, there were also positive and far-reaching effects of the revolution for France as well as for Europe. The FrenchRevolution brought about great long term changes in the society and government.
From the Paper "The French Revolution is known as one of the bloodiest revolutions in all of history, it claimed the lives of thousands of Frenchmen. The question that remains to be answered is, what was the cause for all this carnage?? It was during the years of 1789-1795 that turmoil arose and an outcry came from France, and in place of one of the oldest civilizations stood a new one filled with uncertainty, and the need to reform and build what remained of France. To reflect upon the reasons as to why such a revolution occurred, one must focus upon the main aspects troubling the country and it's people at this time."
Tags: louis, society, poverty, kingdom, government, national, convention, napoleon
This paper discusses that the ideas of three Enlightenment philosophers--- Jean-Jacques Rousseau, David Hume and Edmund Burke----which were related to the FrenchRevolution.
Abstract This paper explains that Rousseau, a proponent of equality and freedom, in his "The Social Contract" passionately argued that common consensus should derive each law; whereby the FrenchRevolution saw the end of absolutism in France and the creation of National Assembly, a representative body from among the masses. The author points out that Enlightenment ideas, which were put forth by Hume, furiously attacked religion, especially the Catholic Church, for yielding too much power and spreading falsehoods; whereby, the denouncement of religion is reflected in the FrenchRevolution in the legislation of the "Civil Constitution of the Clergy". The paper relates that, on the other hand, the FrenchRevolution had its critics, such as Edmund Burke, who saw the bloody revolution as corrupt and a threat to traditional establishments.
From the Paper "Edmund Burke also views the National Assembly as a corrupt, impractical body. He believes that the masses are utterly ignorant and for leaders to follow them could be disastrous. Here Burke dismisses Rousseau's idea of the general will as he does not believe the masses are capable of policy making. Burke writes, "In this political traffic, the leaders will be obliged to bow to the ignorance of their followers, and the followers to become subservient to the worst designs of their leaders." Unlike Rousseau, Burke believes that the right to vote should only lie in the educated, property owning class."
