thephasesofthefrenchrevolution,1787-99.docVIP

The Phases of the French Revolution, 1787-99 Prelude: Aristocratic Rebellion, 1787-89. The kings renewed attempts to tap the wealth of the undertaxed aristocracy and clergy (the Second and the First Estate) lead to rebellion. The aristocracy and the top of the clergy demand a convocation of the Estates General (not assembled since 1614). The king approves but strengthens the Third Estate at its own request. First Phase: Toward a Constitutional Monarchy and Abolition of Privilege, 1789-91. The wealthy representatives of the Third Estate (with many allies from the other Estates) declare themselves a National Assembly and pledge to make France a constitutional monarchy. Prompted by fears of royal reaction, the lower middle classes of Paris form the National Guard and storm the Bastille. Meanwhile, a peasant rebellion (Great Fear) leads to the abolition of all remaining feudal dues. A crowd of women from Paris force the Royal Couple to relocate from Versailles to Paris. In the Declaration of Rights, the N.A. states civic equality, freedom, religious tolerance, and security of property. Civic equality does not apply to women, and property qualifications limit the right to vote and to be elected. Rationalization and centralization of the administration (départements). Liberalization of trade; standard weights and measures. To reduce the debt and deficit, the Assembly confiscates all church lands. The clergy need to swear an oath of loyalty to the new order. The kings attempt to flee Paris and France fails in Varennes. Second Phase: Constitution of a Republic, Civil War, and Foreign War, 1792-93. To secure the achievements of the Revolution, the new Legislative Assembly declares war on Austria (allied with Prussia). As the war takes a turn for the worse, a popular uprising in Paris unseats the king and queen. Under the influence of the radical Paris crowds, the Legislative Assembly calls for a democratic constitution and universal manhood suffrage. Random massacres o