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