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DECLARATION OF THE RIGHTS OF MAN AND THE CITIZEN
A fundamental document proclaiming liberty, equality, and fraternity. It established rights for men but excluded women, influencing future democratic movements worldwide. -
BEGINNING OF THE ESTATES GENERAL
King Louis XVI convened the Estates General to address France’s financial crisis. The Third Estate later declared itself the National Assembly, sparking revolutionary change. -
STORMING OF THE BASTILLE
The Bastille, symbolizing royal tyranny, was stormed by revolutionaries. This marked the French Revolution’s beginning, spreading radical ideas and challenging the monarchy’s power. -
DECLARATION OF THE RIGHTS OF WOMAN AND THE CITIZEN
Olympe de Gouges demanded gender equality, challenging male-dominated rights. Her feminist manifesto led to her execution during the Reign of Terror. -
EXECUTION OF LUIS XVI
King Louis XVI was convicted of treason and guillotined. His execution symbolized the monarchy’s fall and intensified revolutionary radicalism. -
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THE TERROR
Robespierre’s radical government executed thousands via guillotine. Fear and political purges dominated France until his downfall in 1794, ending this brutal revolutionary phase. -
COUP DÉTAT OF THERMIDOR
Robespierre and his allies were arrested and executed. This ended the Reign of Terror, shifting France toward moderate rule and diminishing radical Jacobin influence. -
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THE DIRECTORY
A five-member government struggling with corruption, economic issues, and instability. It was overthrown by Napoleon’s Brumaire coup, paving the way for his rule. -
COUP DÉTAT OF BRUMAIRE
Napoleon overthrew the Directory, replacing it with the Consulate. This marked the end of the French Revolution and his rise as France’s leader. -
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THE CONSULATE
Napoleon ruled as First Consul, stabilizing France through reforms. This period ended with him declaring himself Emperor in 1804, consolidating power. -
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THE EMPIRE
Napoleon crowned himself Emperor, expanding France’s dominance through wars. His reign ended with his abdication in 1814 and the failed 1815 comeback. -
BATTLE OF AUSTERLITZ
Napoleon’s greatest victory, defeating Russian and Austrian forces. His strategic brilliance at Austerlitz solidified France’s dominance in Europe, weakening the Third Coalition. -
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EXILE IN ELBA
After abdicating, Napoleon was exiled to Elba. He later escaped, returned to France, and ruled for 100 days before his final defeat. -
BATTLE OF WATERLOO
Napoleon’s army was defeated by British and Prussian forces, ending his rule. He was captured and exiled to Saint Helena, never returning. -
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EXILE IN ST. HELENA
Napoleon was sent to remote Saint Helena, spending six years under British supervision until his death in 1821, marking his definitive end. -
DEATH OF NAPOLEON
Napoleon died in exile on Saint Helena, likely from stomach cancer. His legacy shaped European history, inspiring future military and political leaders.