The French Revolution was a transformative period in France’s history, beginning in 1789 and lasting until the late 1790s. It was driven by widespread social inequality, economic crisis, and the influence of Enlightenment ideas advocating liberty, equality, and fraternity. The revolution aimed to overthrow the monarchy, challenge the privileges of the aristocracy and clergy, and establish a more just society. Key events, such as the storming of the Bastille, the adoption of the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, and the execution of King Louis XVI, marked its progression. While the revolution led to violence and instability, including the Reign of Terror, it ultimately reshaped France’s political structure and inspired democratic movements worldwide. https://youtu.be/RTcXLgaNxhc?list=PLGyQ_RMbdfNMLUHMV6EszjcxlntlVnKQ6

Stage 1 of the French Revolution: The Moderate Phase (1789–1791) The first stage of the French Revolution, known as the Moderate Phase, began in 1789 with growing discontent among the Third Estate due to social inequalities and financial crises. It started with the convening of the Estates-General in May, where the Third Estate declared itself the National Assembly, demanding a constitutional monarchy. The storming of the Bastille on July 14 symbolized the people's defiance against tyranny. This period saw significant reforms, including the abolition of feudal privileges and the adoption of the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, which established principles of liberty and equality. The National Assembly also drafted the Constitution of 1791, limiting the king’s power and marking a shift towards a constitutional monarchy. However, tensions remained as King Louis XVI resisted changes, setting the stage for more radical developments. https://youtu.be/T9rsl_pBAlo?list=PLGyQ_RMbdfNMLUHMV6EszjcxlntlVnKQ6

Stage 2 of the French Revolution: The Radical Phase (1792–1794) The second stage of the French Revolution, known as the Radical Phase, was marked by increasing political turmoil and the fall of the monarchy. In 1792, France declared war on Austria and Prussia, fueling nationalist sentiments. The monarchy was abolished, and on September 22, 1792, France was declared a republic. King Louis XVI was executed in January 1793, followed by Queen Marie Antoinette. This period saw the rise of the Jacobins, led by Maximilien Robespierre, who imposed radical reforms and centralized power. The Reign of Terror (1793–1794) intensified, with mass executions of perceived enemies of the revolution using the guillotine. Thousands, including revolutionary leaders like Georges Danton, were executed. Fear and instability led to Robespierre’s downfall in July 1794, ending the radical phase and paving the way for a more moderate government. https://youtu.be/dbPNLMOhSgA?list=PLGyQ_RMbdfNMLUHMV6EszjcxlntlVnKQ6

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