French Revolution Lecture Notes

Introduction

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The Royal Marriage and Financial Ruin

• Prince Louis marries Archduchess of Austria.
• France is in financial ruin despite the opulent lifestyle of the upper class.
• Peasants are 80% of the population, heavily taxed, and responsible for the nation's wealth.
• Historical context of lavish celebrations and social culture.

France's Financial Crisis

• France loses a war with Britain, increasing financial debt.
• Louis XVI's weak leadership and manipulation.
• France supports the American Revolution, worsening its financial state.
• Marie Antoinette's lavish spending increases public disdain.

Rising Discontent and Enlightenment Ideas

• Enlightenment era questions the need for a monarchy and societal inequality.
• Economic strain on the poor from taxation and inconsistent tax policies.
• Natural disasters leading to food scarcity and high bread prices.

Call for Reform and the Estates General

• King Louis XVI summons the Estates General for the first time in 175 years.
• The unfair voting system among the three estates (clergy, nobility, and the third estate).
• The third estate forms the National Assembly, seeking more equality.

The Revolution Begins

• The National Assembly takes the Tennis Court Oath for reform.
• Formation of the radical Jacobin Club advocating for the removal of the king.
• The military presence around Paris heightening tensions.

Storming of the Bastille

• July 14, 1789: The crowd storms the Bastille for gunpowder.
• The National Assembly supports the violent actions, paving the way for a violent revolution.

Influence of Radical Ideas

• Jean-Paul Marat's radical newspaper, "Friend of the People," inciting fear and anger.
• Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, promoting liberty, despite gender inequality.

The Women's March on Versailles

• October 5th: Women march to Versailles to confront the king about hunger and inequality.
• The crowd grows and demands action from the king.
• The king agrees to share power with the revolutionary government and relocates to Paris.

Conclusion

• Summary of the early stages of the French Revolution, highlighting key events and social changes.
• Mention of contemporary sponsorship and merchandise related to the lecture's theme.