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The Estates-General Convenes
King Louis XVI summoned the Estates-General to address the financial crisis in France, representing the clergy, nobility, and common people, marking the beginning of political changes. -
Tennis Court Oath
Members of the Third Estate vowed not to disband until a new constitution was established, symbolizing a unified challenge to royal authority. -
Storming of the Bastille
Parisians stormed the Bastille prison, a symbol of royal tyranny, marking the uprising that sparked the French Revolution. -
Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen
This document articulated the goals of the revolution, asserting individual rights and the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity. -
Women's March on Versailles
Thousands of women marched from Paris to Versailles demanding bread and political reforms, leading to the royal family’s return to Paris. -
Reign of Terror
A period of extreme political repression led by Robespierre, resulting in thousands of executions and a climate of fear. -
Execution of Louis XVI
King Louis XVI was tried and executed by guillotine, representing a radical shift in power and the abolishment of the monarchy. -
Thermidorian Reaction
The overthrow of Robespierre ended the Reign of Terror, leading to a more moderate phase of the revolution. -
Formation of the Directory
A new government structure established after the fall of the Committee of Public Safety, known for corruption and instability. -
Napoleon's Coup d'État
Napoleon Bonaparte seized control of the government, effectively ending the French Revolution and leading to the establishment of the Consulate. -
The Napoleonic Code
A comprehensive set of civil laws implemented by Napoleon that influenced legal systems worldwide by emphasizing equality before the law. -
Battle of Austerlitz
One of Napoleon’s greatest victories against Austria and Russia, cementing his status as a formidable military leader in Europe. -
The Continental System
Napoleon's economic blockade against Britain intended to weaken its economy and assert French dominance, which ultimately led to resentment across Europe. -
Treaty of Tilsit
An agreement between Napoleon and Tsar Alexander I, establishing French dominance in Europe and temporarily aligning their interests against Britain. -
Invasion of Russia
Napoleon led his troops into Russia, which ultimately resulted in a disastrous retreat due to harsh winter conditions and scorched earth tactics. -
Abdication of Napoleon
Facing defeat and pressure from the Sixth Coalition, Napoleon abdicated the throne and was exiled to Elba. -
Napoleon's Return from Elba
After a brief exile, Napoleon returned to France, reclaiming power and sparking the Hundred Days before his final defeat at Waterloo.