1. The French Revolution

2. Enlightenment Inspires Revolution
The Glorious Revolution
England 1689
Why = Protestant religion in England threatened by Catholic King James II
Result = Protestant William of Orange becomes King
Constitutional Monarchy = powers of the King limited by the laws of the country
The American Revolution
North America,
Why = American colonists wanted independence from English rule
Result = United States of America formed
Representative Government = citizens elect leaders to make / enforce laws

3. The 1st & 2nd Estates 1st Estate = 2nd Estate = Both did not pay taxes
Roman Catholic Clergy (Priests & Bishops)
1% of population
Owned %10 of land
Collected taxes from church members
2nd Estate =
French Nobles
2% of population (30% of land and use of much more)
Collected taxes from peasants on their land
Both did not pay taxes

4. The 3rd Estate 97% of the population
Doctors, lawyers, businessmen (Bourgeoise)
Working class (Factory, skilled workers)
Peasants (80% of the pop)
Had no “voice” in government
Paid all the taxes

5. Enlightenment Sparks Revolution!
France is in trouble…
Huge Debt $$$
Louis XVI weak leader
The National Assembly
Meeting of all 3 estates
Each Estate had 1 vote (1st & 2nd had advantage)
Tennis Court Oath = 3rd estate vowed to form a new constitution for France

6. Violence Erupts in France
Storming of the Bastille = Symbol of Monarchy destroyed by 3rd Estate
The Great Fear = A wave of panic spread through French countryside
The Reign of Terror = Mass executions of “traitors” to the Revolution.
Robespierre ruled as dictator
Louis XVI & Marie Antoinette beheaded by the guillotine