Impact of the French Revolution on Europe

Introduction One of the most important events in history France lost thousands of countrymen due to emigrants escaping political tensions Emigrated to several countries including Germany, Austria, Great Britain and Prussia Some also came to the United States Leading to the spread of French culture Greatest impact was in France

Impact on France They saw the introduction of legal equality The Catholic church lost power Before the Revolution people had little voice or power The power of the kings was stripped away after the 1st year of the Revolution Judges and magistrates were elected by the people The army and military power was now in the hands of the new revolutionary National Guard

Impact on Europe There were two decades of war centered around France trying to spread its revolutionary ideals War broke out in 1792 with the invasion by Austria and Prussia of France The migrants from France (primarily men) brought with them the fear of political unrest

French Conquest The French army had much success Belgium was conquered and became a province of France The Netherlands were also conquered and became a puppet state The French went on to take control of German areas on the left bank of the Rhine River More puppet states were established with the conquering of Switzerland and most of Italy (Napoleon)

French Nationalism Nationalism-love or pride for ones country Napoleon was viewed as a heroic symbol The influence was great in the small German states and elsewhere