FRENCH REVOLUTION

Definition of FRENCH REVOLUTION

FRENCH REVOLUTION Noun

French Revolution is a historical term that refers to a period of radical social and political upheaval in France that lasted from 1789 to 1799. It marked a significant transformation in French society and had profound effects on the course of world history.

Political and Social Upheaval: The French Revolution was characterized by the collapse of the monarchy, the rise of radical political groups, and the establishment of a republic. For example, “The French Revolution led to the end of the Bourbon monarchy and the rise of revolutionary France,” signifies the dramatic political changes during this period.

Key Events and Phases: The French Revolution is marked by several key phases, including the initial revolutionary fervor, the Reign of Terror, and the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte. For instance, “The Reign of Terror, led by Robespierre, was one of the most radical phases of the French Revolution,” highlights a specific period within the larger revolutionary context.

Impact on French Society: The revolution had a profound impact on French society, including the abolition of feudal privileges, the establishment of secular laws, and significant changes in social structures. For example, “The French Revolution abolished feudal privileges and introduced legal equality,” demonstrates its societal changes.

Global Influence: The French Revolution had a significant influence on global politics, inspiring revolutionary movements and shaping modern political ideologies. For instance, “The ideas of liberty and equality promoted during the French Revolution influenced democratic movements worldwide,” reflects its global impact.

Ideals of Liberty and Equality: The revolution promoted ideals such as liberty, equality, and fraternity, which became central to modern democratic and republican ideologies. For example, “The principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity were enshrined in the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen,” illustrates its ideological foundations.

Challenges to Established Orders: The revolution challenged established social and political orders, including the absolute monarchy, the aristocracy, and the influence of the Catholic Church. For instance, “The French Revolution challenged the authority of the monarchy and the traditional power structures,” highlights its role in reshaping political norms.

Art and Literature: The French Revolution inspired significant changes in art and literature, reflecting the revolutionary spirit and social changes of the time. For example, “The revolutionary period saw a rise in political art and literature that critiqued the old regime and celebrated revolutionary ideals,” showcases its cultural impact.

Historical Legacy: The legacy of the French Revolution continues to influence historical scholarship and public understanding of revolutionary change. For instance, “The French Revolution is a key subject of study for historians exploring the origins of modern democratic institutions,” emphasizes its lasting historical significance.

In summary, the French Revolution refers to a pivotal historical period marked by radical political, social, and ideological changes in France from 1789 to 1799. It involved significant upheaval, the establishment of revolutionary principles, and a profound impact on both French society and global politics. Understanding the French Revolution helps in recognizing its role in shaping modern democratic and republican ideologies, as well as its cultural and historical influence.

Examples of FRENCH REVOLUTION in a sentence

  • The French Revolution marked a significant turning point in European history.
  • The causes of the French Revolution include social inequality and economic hardship.
  • The French Revolution led to the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte and the Napoleonic Wars.
  • Key events of the French Revolution include the Storming of the Bastille and the Reign of Terror.
  • The French Revolution inspired many other revolutionary movements around the world.
  • The French Revolution had profound effects on French society, leading to the end of monarchy.
  • Historians often study the French Revolution to understand the dynamics of revolutionary change.
  • The French Revolution was characterized by its radical political and social upheaval.

Origin of FRENCH REVOLUTION

The term French Revolution has its origins in the historical context of 18th-century France and describes a pivotal period of political and social upheaval.

  • French:
    • Révolution française (French Revolution)
    • The term Révolution française refers specifically to the period of revolutionary upheaval in France that began in 1789. It denotes the radical transformation of French society, politics, and governance that led to the fall of the monarchy and the rise of republics.
  • Latin:
    • Revolutio (a turning, revolution)
    • The Latin word revolutio means a turning or revolution. It is derived from revolvĕre (to turn around), reflecting the fundamental concept of significant change or upheaval that characterizes the term revolution.
  • Middle French:
    • Révolution (revolution, upheaval)
    • In Middle French, révolution was used to describe a radical change or upheaval, particularly in a political context. It evolved from Latin revolutio and was applied to various significant changes or revolts.
  • Modern English:
    • French Revolution (the period of political and social upheaval in France from 1789 to 1799)
    • In Modern English, French Revolution specifically refers to the period of intense political and social change in France between 1789 and 1799. It involved the overthrow of the French monarchy, the establishment of a republic, and significant changes in French society and governance.

The term French Revolution has evolved from its Latin roots, maintaining its core meaning related to a period of radical change and upheaval in French history into Modern English.

Synonyms

  • The Revolution of 1789
  • The French Rebellion
  • The French Uprising
  • The Revolution
  • The Age of Revolution
  • The Parisian Revolution
  • The Jacobin Revolution
  • The Revolutionary War

Antonyms

  • Monarchy
  • Royalist regime
  • Ancien Régime
  • Aristocracy
  • Feudalism
  • Conservative rule
  • Status quo
  • Traditional government

Related

  • Bastille
  • Liberty, Equality, Fraternity
  • Guillotine
  • Robespierre
  • Napoleonic era
  • Jacobins
  • Reign of Terror
  • Declaration of the Rights of Man

🌐 🇬🇧 FRENCH REVOLUTION in other languages

Terms of Use

Privacy & Cookies

Disclaimer

Who We Are

Main Sections

Idioms

Geographical Locations

Organisations

Professions

Let´s Talk

Contact

Instagram

® 2024 https://DefinitionGo.com