The French Revolution and its Consequences
Why is the French Revolution Considered Important?
Because it marked the end of the old regime and the beginning of the contemporary age.
Causes of the French Revolution
Economic Factors
- In 1760, the French state faced a financial crisis due to debt from the Seven Years’ War and aid to the North American colonies.
Social Factors
- Ministers attempted to reduce state debt by raising taxes, which failed due to resistance from the privileged classes.
Political and Ideological Factors
- Enlightenment ideas provided the ideological foundation to overthrow the old regime.
- Key ideas included the division of powers, national sovereignty, and the right to freedom.
Stages of the French Revolution
- The National Assembly (1789)
- The Constituent Assembly (1789-1791)
- The French Republic and the War (1792-1795)
- The Directory and the Rise of Napoleon Bonaparte (1795-1809)
Implications of the French Revolution and Napoleonic Empire
- Disappearance of the social and political structures of the old regime.
- Transition from absolute power to a constitutional monarchy.
- Recognition of national sovereignty.
- Establishment of constitutions.
- Rise of the bourgeoisie to political power.
- Emergence of ideas of independence in Ibero-American colonies.
- New nationalist movements and revolutionary waves.
Basic Principles of Liberalism
- National sovereignty
- Separation of powers
- Promulgation of a natural constitution
- Freedoms
- Rights
Did Liberals Solve the Social Problems of the Time?
No, the bourgeoisie did not trust the people and, although they used them in revolutionary processes, prevented their full political participation.
Fundamentals of Two Nationalist Theories Developed in the Nineteenth Century
One theory advocated for the release of nations under foreign rule, asserting that subject peoples should form their own states. It defended the right of any community to become a nation if it wished (e.g., Greece, Belgium, and the Netherlands). Another theory stated that territories with common elements should aspire to be a nation (e.g., Italy and Germany).
Unification of Italy
Italy was divided into several states: the kingdoms of Sardinia, Lombardy, Veneto, and the Two Sicilies; the duchies of Parma, Modena, and Tuscany; and the Papal States. Key figures were Victor Emmanuel II and his minister Cavour.
Unification of Germany
Germany consisted of 39 states, each with an independent government, grouped into the Germanic Confederation.
Key Terms
Nationalism
A sentimental belonging to the same community or nation whose members share a past, a language, and a common culture.
Federal Republic
A political system in which different states have autonomy to govern themselves but agree to maintain common policies, an army, and a constitution.
Neoclassicism
A classical style that emerged in Italy during the second third of the 18th century, spreading through Europe, with France as a key center.
Related Figures
- Victor Emmanuel II (King of Italy)
- Louis Philippe (French King, 1830)
- William I (German Emperor)
- Louis XIII (King of France in 1789)