French Revolution 1789–1799: The Collapse of the Absolute Monarchy and the Birth of the Principles of Modern Democracy
The French Revolution is one of the most important events in world h... See more
French Revolution 1789–1799: The Collapse of the Absolute Monarchy and the Birth of the Principles of Modern Democracy
The French Revolution is one of the most important events in world history.
More than just a change of king, the French Revolution propagated three great principles: liberty, equality, and fraternity.
Background to the French Revolution
At the end of the 18th century, France was in a state of crisis.
1. Economic Crisis
The French government went bankrupt because of the war, including helping America gain independence.
2. Social Inequality
French society is divided into 3 groups.
3. Influence of the Enlightenment
The ideas of philosophers such as John Locke, Montesquieu, and Rousseau spread widely.
King Louis XVI was incapable of reform.
The Course of the French Revolution 1789–1799
This revolution took place in several important stages:
1. Early Stage 1789–1791
The National Assembly was formed and issued a Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen.
2. Radical Phase 1792–1794
The monarchy was abolished and France became a republic.
3. Directory Level 1795–1799
After Robespierre fell, the government was held by 5 directors.
4. End of the Revolution of 1799
The young general Napoleon Bonaparte carried out the coup of 18 Brumaire and ended the French Revolution.
The Impact of the French Revolution on the World
The impact of this revolution went far beyond the borders of France and changed the political map of the world.
1. End of Feudalism
The feudal system and the privileges of the nobility were abolished.
2. The Birth of Modern Nationalism
People began to feel like they owned the country.
3. Spread of Democratic Principles
The ideas of freedom, equality, and fraternity inspired independence movements in Latin America, Europe, and Asia.
4. Separation of Powers
Montesquieu's ideas about the executive, legislative and judiciary began to be applied in modern government systems.
5. Legal Codification
Napoleon then drafted the Napoleonic Code in 1804. This legal system became the basis of law in many European countries and their former colonies.
The Legacy of the French Revolution
To this day the motto Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité is still the official motto of France.
Although violent, the French Revolution succeeded in breaking the idea that the king's power came from God and was inviolable.
Conclusion
The French Revolution of 1789–1799 was a major turning point in world political history.
The principles of freedom, equality and fraternity that were born from this revolution continue to live and become the foundation of democracy in many countries, including Indonesia.
Without the French Revolution, perhaps the concepts of human rights, the constitution, and popular sovereignty would not have developed as quickly.
French Revolution 1789–1799: The Collapse of the Absolute Monarchy and the Birth of the Principles of Modern Democracy
The French Revolution is one of the most important events in world h... See more
The French Revolution is one of the most important events in world h... See more
