French Revolution Key Events and Figures

The French Revolution was a pivotal period in European history, marked by the overthrow of the old regime and the rise of the bourgeoisie. Enlightenment ideas fueled social discontent, leading to the formation of the National Assembly and the fall of the monarchy. The Revolution radicalized during the Reign of Terror, with thousands executed. Eventually, the Directory took over, but internal strife and economic issues persisted. Napoleon Bonaparte rose to power, ending the Revolution by proclaiming himself Emperor, yet the ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity continued to influence the world.

What was a major influence on the French Revolution?

• The Industrial Revolution

• The Enlightenment

• The Renaissance

• The Scientific Revolution

Which estate was responsible for paying all the taxes in France before the Revolution?

• The Fourth Estate

• The First Estate

• The Second Estate

• The Third Estate

What event is considered a turning point in the French Revolution?

• The signing of the Magna Carta

• The Industrial Revolution

• The storming of the Bastille

• The American Revolution

What was one of the key reforms made by the National Constituent Assembly?

• The expansion of the French Empire

• The Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen

• The creation of a new religion

• The establishment of a new monarchy

Who was a prominent leader during the Reign of Terror?

• Robespierre

• Louis XVI

• Voltaire

• Napoleon Bonaparte

What was the purpose of the Committee of Public Safety?

• To safeguard the Republic

• To expand the French Empire

• To negotiate with foreign powers

• To establish a new monarchy

What was the outcome of the trial against King Louis XVI?

• He was exiled

• He was executed

• He was imprisoned for life

• He was pardoned

What was the Reign of Terror characterized by?

• Peaceful negotiations

• Mass executions

• Economic prosperity

• Religious reforms

What marked the end of the French Revolution for many historians?

• Napoleon proclaiming himself Emperor

• The execution of Robespierre

• The signing of the Treaty of Paris

• The fall of the Bastille

What phrase became a lasting legacy of the French Revolution?

• Peace, Land, and Bread

• Workers of the World, Unite

• All Men are Created Equal

• Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité