-
Period: to
National Constituent Assembly
-
Formal opening of the Estates General
In 1789, the Formal opening of the Estates General marked a pivotal moment in the French Revolution. It took place in Versailles, France, and aimed to address the nation's political and economic crises. Representatives from the three estates (clergy, nobility, and commoners) convened, but conflicts arose over voting rights, leading to the eventual formation of the National Assembly. -
Tennis Court Oath
The Tennis Court Oath occurred during the French Revolution in 1789. Frustrated by limited representation, the Third Estate members gathered at a tennis court in Versailles and pledged not to disband until a new constitution was established. This act displayed their determination for change and laid the foundation for the formation of the National Assembly, a crucial step towards revolutionizing the political system in France. -
Storming of the Bastille
The Storming of the Bastille on July 14, 1789, was a pivotal event in the French Revolution. Angry Parisians stormed the Bastille prison, a symbol of royal authority, seeking weapons and defying the monarchy. The violent confrontation resulted in the fall of the fortress and became a symbol of the people's power, igniting the revolution across France. The event is celebrated as Bastille Day and marked a turning point in the overthrow of the Old Regime. -
The August Decrees
The August Decrees were a series of measures enacted by the National Assembly of France in August 1789. They were aimed at sweeping social and political reforms. The decrees abolished feudalism, removed privileges of the nobility, and introduced principles of equality and meritocracy. They also declared freedom of speech, press, and religion. These reforms signaled a shift toward a more egalitarian society and laid the foundation for the modern French state. -
The Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen
The Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen was a pivotal document of the French Revolution, adopted on August 26, 1789. It proclaimed the fundamental rights and freedoms of all citizens, emphasizing equality, liberty, and popular sovereignty. It declared the rights to liberty, property, security, and resistance to oppression. The declaration influenced subsequent human rights movements globally and remains a significant symbol of democratic ideals and individual liberties. -
Period: to
Legislative Assembly
-
The Flight to Varennes
The Flight to Varennes occurred on 1791, during the French Revolution. King Louis XVI, accompanied by his family, attempted to escape Paris to join loyalist forces. However, they were recognized and apprehended in the town of Varennes and brought back to the capital. The failed escape shattered remaining trust in the monarchy and solidified the perception of Louis XVI as a traitor. It further fueled revolutionary sentiments and contributed to the eventual downfall of the monarchy in France. -
Period: to
National Convention
-
Period: to
1st French Republic
-
The Assembly declares war on Austria
On April 1792, during the French Revolution, the Assembly declared war on Austria. France aimed to combat counter-revolutionary threats and export revolutionary ideals. The conflict, known as the War of the First Coalition, involved Austria and other European powers. Despite initial setbacks, the French military, political instability, and the radicalization of the Revolution ensued. This war had profound implications for both France and Europe, leaving a lasting impact on the course of history. -
Storming of the Tuileries Palace
The Storming of the Tuileries Palace took place on August 10, 1792, during the French Revolution. Angered by Louis XVI's perceived betrayal, a crowd of revolutionaries attacked the palace, where the king resided. They overpowered the royal guards and forced the king and his family to seek refuge in the Legislative Assembly. The event marked a turning point, eroding support for the monarchy and paving the way for the abolition of the monarchy and the establishment of the First French Republic. -
Execution of Louis XVI
Louis XVI, the last monarch of France, was executed on January 21, 1793, during the French Revolution. Found guilty of treason by the National Convention, he was sentenced to death by guillotine. The execution symbolized the end of the monarchy and the radicalization of the Revolution. It sparked shockwaves across Europe, intensified the war with other nations, and solidified the revolutionary fervor in France, leading to further political and social transformations. -
Execution of Robespierre
Robespierre, was a prominent figure in the French Revolution, was executed in1794. As a key leader of the Committee of Public Safety, he implemented the Reign of Terror. However, Robespierre's increasing power and radicalism led to opposition. Fearing his dictatorship, members of the National Convention turned against him. Robespierre was arrested and executed by guillotine. His execution marked the end of the Reign of Terror and a shift away from extreme revolutionary policies in France. -
Period: to
Directory
-
Period: to
The Consulate
-
Period: to
The Napoleonic Era
-
Period: to
The Empire
-
Battle of Austerlitz
The Battle of Austerlitz, in 1805, saw Napoleon's French forces triumph over the combined armies of Austria and Russia. Dubbed the "Battle of the Three Emperors," Napoleon's strategic brilliance led to a decisive victory. The French lured their foes into a trap, inflicting heavy casualties and securing a dominant position. Austerlitz showcased Napoleon's military genius, solidifying France's power in Europe and shaping the course of history. -
Battle of Trafalgar
The Battle of Trafalgar, fought in 1805, pitted the British Royal Navy against the combined French and Spanish fleets. Admiral Nelson's ingenious tactics resulted in a resounding British victory, despite being outnumbered. The triumph eliminated French naval dominance, secured British supremacy, and foiled Napoleon's plans to invade Britain. Although Nelson perished, Trafalgar left an indelible mark on the Napoleonic Wars, reshaping their trajectory. -
Battle of Leipzig
The Battle of Leipzig, fought in 1813 during the Napoleonic Wars, pitted French forces against a formidable coalition comprising Russia, Prussia, Austria, and Sweden. With intense fighting across a broad front, over half a million soldiers were engaged. The coalition's superior numbers and coordination gradually overwhelmed Napoleon's forces, resulting in a decisive victory. The battle proved to be a turning point, weakening Napoleon and altering the course of the war in favor of the coalition. -
Battle of Waterloo
In 1815, the Battle of Waterloo took place in what is now Belgium. France faced a coalition led by Britain and Prussia. The fighting was fierce, with heavy casualties on both sides, but in the end the British held their ground. The Prussian army arrived later and broke the balance for the Allies. Napoleon's defeat at Waterloo marked the end of his reign and led to his abdication and exile. Since then, this battle has become a symbol of the final decline of Napoleon's empire.