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Learn: The French Revolution, c1780–99
iGCSE History [Edexcel] 4HI1
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Welcome!Today we'll learn about the French Revolution, c1780–99. This was a time of immense change in France that significantly impacted the country and the world. We'll explore its causes, major events, and consequences.
What was the French Revolution?The French Revolution was a period of social, political, and economic upheaval in France between 1789 and 1799. It led to the overthrow of the monarchy, the rise of revolutionary governments, and significant changes in French society.
Causes of the French RevolutionSeveral factors contributed to the French Revolution, including economic hardship, inequality, the influence of Enlightenment ideas, and the financial crisis due to costly wars and royal extravagance.
Which of the following was a cause of the French Revolution?
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Social Structure in Pre-Revolutionary FranceBefore the French Revolution, society was divided into three estates. The First Estate included the clergy, the Second Estate was the nobility, and the Third Estate comprised the common people who paid most of the taxes.
Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
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The Enlightenment and Its RoleThe Enlightenment was a movement that emphasised reason, individual rights, and democracy. Thinkers like Voltaire and Rousseau inspired the French to question the monarchy and demand equality and liberty.
Which Enlightenment idea contributed to the French Revolution?
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Key Events of the French RevolutionMajor events included the storming of the Bastille on 14 July 1789, the establishment of the National Assembly, the Reign of Terror from 1793–94, and the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte by 1799.
The {{blank0}} was stormed on July 14, 1789, marking the start of the French Revolution.
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The Reign of TerrorDuring the Reign of Terror (1793–94), revolutionary leaders like Robespierre used extreme measures to protect the revolution, including mass executions of perceived enemies using the guillotine.
What characterised the Reign of Terror? (Select all that apply)
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Consequences of the French RevolutionThe revolution abolished the monarchy, established a republic, and spread revolutionary ideas across Europe. It also led to political instability and the eventual rise of Napoleon.
Review Time!Great work! You've learned about the causes, events, and consequences of the French Revolution. Now let's test your understanding.
What was the Third Estate primarily responsible for?
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The Reign of {{blank0}} lasted from 1793 to 1794 and saw mass {{blank1}} carried out by revolutionary leaders.
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Match the items on the left with their correct pairs on the right
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