French Revolution: Key Issues and Events

Front

What were the Three Estates in pre-revolutionary France?

Back

The Clergy, the Nobility, and the Commoners

Front

How did the tax system affect the different estates? Which estate carried the heaviest tax burden?

Back

The Third Estate paid the most taxes.

Front

What does it mean for a king to rule by “divine right”?

Back

The king was considered God's representative on Earth and had absolute power.

Front

What were some of the main factors that contributed to France's debt before the French Revolution? Options: Excessive taxation and low agricultural output, Lavish spending by the monarchy and costly wars, High industrial production costs and trade deficits, Overpopulation and lack of resources

Back

Lavish spending by the monarchy and costly wars

Front

What was the Estates General, and why was it called in May 1789?

Back

A meeting of representatives from all three estates to address financial issues.

Front

What was the Tennis Court Oath, and what did it signify for the Third Estate and the National Assembly?

Back

A vow to draft a new constitution and establish a fair government

Front

What was the Declaration of the Rights of Man, and why was it significant?

Back

A statement of fundamental rights and freedoms for all citizens

Front

Who were the Jacobins, and what role did they play during the Reign of Terror?

Back

A political club that led radical changes and enforced revolutionary policies

Front

How did the Civil Constitution of the Clergy (1790) affect the Church and clergy members in France?

Back

It reduced the Church's influence and required clergy to swear allegiance to the state.

Front

How did military successes contribute to Napoleon Bonaparte's rise to power?

Back

They weakened his political rivals and increased his popularity