How Did The Bourgeoisie Influence The Start Of The French Revolution

Similar to the beginning of the American Revolution, the French Revolution also saw its beginnings due to France being in debt after allying with America during their Revolution, and as a result, France began taxing its own people. The French Revolution officially begun in 1789 and lasted until 1799, from which point Napoleon took power and created a French Empire (or Napoleonic Empire), lasting until 1815. The taxation of the people and France’s overwhelming debt, was a key factor in creating the conditions for the french revolution, especially as only the peasants (or third estate) were taxed and the nobles (second estate) we exempt. The Bourgeoisie played a pivotal role in the beginning of the revolution. They were the upper middle class people, or

This led to the people wanting a change of the government. The French Revolution officially begun in 1789, most notably with the storming of the prison Bastille on July 14 1789 by rioters. The Bastille was stormed both due to it being a symbol of the French monarchy, and also to gain the gunpowder and weapons that was stored there. The National Assembly, who were the representatives of the third estate, created the Declaration of Rights of Man, in August of 1789, which gave rights to the freedom of speech and assembly, and was of fundamental importance throughout the Revolution. This Declaration was also the foundation of a constitution which came about in 1791. Things took a radical turn in the revolution in 1792, when wars began to break out and eventually King Louis XVI was arrested, and executed the following year. Most notably, this resulted in the abolishment of a monarchy and the formation of a republic. Following the execution of the King, more war occurred against other European countries and counter-revolutionary activities