American Revolution vs. French Revolution Essay Seventh Grade Social Studies

Opening Paragraph Make a general statement about the importance of the American and French Revolution. Example: “The American and French Revolutions, while occurring in the late-eighteenth century, had permanent affects on the societies of the United States and France”

Paragraphs 1-3: The American Revolution Paragraph 1: Identify and briefly discuss some of the primary causes of the American Revolution. (Taxation, French & Indian War, British control) Paragraph 2: Compare and contrast the Boston Massacre and Boston Tea Party. Paragraph 3: Discuss the outcome of the American Revolution. (Colonists gained independence, new government, new country formed, Washington becomes President)

Paragraphs 4-7 Paragraphs 4, 5: Identify and briefly discuss the primary causes of the French Revolution. (Enlightenment, Three Estates, King Louis XVI) Paragraph 6: Describe the Storming of the Bastille. (Third Estate storms French fortress) Paragraph 7: Discuss the effects of the French Revolution, both short-term and long-term. (Short term: Created awareness of problems within social classes, Napoleon Bonaparte became “emperor”; Long-term: France becomes constitutional monarchy and world superpower)

Paragraphs 8-10 Paragraph 8: Discuss similarities between the American and French Revolution. (Unfair taxation, unfair social classes, most people had no say in government) Paragraph 9: Discuss the role of absolute monarchies in the American and French Revolution. (Absolute monarchies did not allow for individual rights of citizens) Paragraph 10: Closing; would the French Revolution have ever happened if not for the American Revolution? Explain.