Crash Course World History: The French Revolution
Overview
- Presented by John Green.
- French Revolution compared to American Revolution.
- American Revolution viewed positively; French Revolution seen as anarchic.
- Argument: French Revolution's ideas had a greater impact on human history.
Pre-Revolutionary France
- 18th century France: Rich, populous but poor tax system.
- Ancien Régime: Nobles and clergy didn't pay taxes.
- Debt from the American Revolution.
- King Louis XVI used half national budget for debt.
- Failed reforms led to bankruptcy.
- Hailstorms ruined harvest, causing hunger and anger.
- Enlightenment ideas challenged royal authority.
Estates General and National Assembly
- Estates General: Nobles, clergy, and Third Estate (everyone else).
- Third Estate broke away, forming National Assembly.
- Tennis Court Oath: Pledge to create a constitution.
- Troops sent to Paris; seen as a provocation.
- Storming of the Bastille on July 14th.
National Assembly's Reforms
- Abolishment of Ancien Regime on August 4th.
- Declaration of Rights of Man and Citizen proclaimed.
- Rights: Liberty, property, security.
The King's Fall and Rise of the Republic
- Women's March on Versailles, royal family moved to Paris.
- Shift from constitutional monarchy to republic.
- Jacobins and radical revolutionary actions.
- Execution of Louis XVI and establishment of the Republic.
The Terror
- Led by Committee of Public Safety and Robespierre.
- Guillotine became symbol of revolutionary justice.
- Execution of 16,000 enemies including Marie Antoinette.
- Reformatting of time and measurement systems.
Aftermath and Napoleon's Rise
- New constitution favored wealthy.
- Wars with Austria and Britain.
- Napoleon Bonaparte rises to power as first consul in 1799.
- Transition similar to absolute monarchy.
Legacy of the French Revolution
- Debate over its success: Enlightenment ideals vs. state power.
- Contrast with American Revolution.
- Radical ideas of universal rights.
- Ongoing questions about people's rights and government.
Cultural References
- Phrase of the Week and community engagement.
Conclusion
- French Revolution's complexity and legacy continue to influence modern discussions on rights and government.
- Historical analysis remains relevant as society addresses similar questions.
Production Credits
- Written by John Green and Raoul Meyer, directed by Stan Muller.
Remember, the past continues to influence the present and future. "Don't forget to be awesome."