7.0 Introduction

Towards the end of the 18th century, Europe was shaken by an uprising staged by the French people against autocracy and aristocracy. The French Revolution began with the fall of the Bastille on July 14, 1789 and continued till Napoleon Bonaparte rose to power. This event is regarded as a landmark by most historians as tremendous changes took place in France and these changes had a significant effect on the other countries in Europe. The English revolutions of 1672 and 1688 were political and religious, while the American Revolution of 1776 was mainly political. However the French Revolution of 1789 was political, social, religious and economic for it swept away the existing political institutions and aimed at establishing a more egalitarian society, and responsible government than what was in existence earlier.

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Index

7.0 Introduction
7.1 Causes of the French Revolution
7.2 Course of the Revolution
7.3 Napoleon Bonaparte
7.4 Consequences of the Revolution
7.5 Dates & Events
7.6 Points to Remember

Chapter 8