Causes of the French Revolution
What was the Estates-General, and why was it controversial?
The Estates-General was a meeting of representatives from the three estates. It was controversial because the Third Estate had little power despite representing most of the population.
What key Enlightenment ideas influenced both the American and French Revolutions?
Ideas about natural rights, the social contract, and government by consent influenced both revolutions.
What role did Napoleon play in the French military before his rise to power?
He was a successful general who won several major battles.
What was the Continental System, and why did it fail?
It was a blockade against Britain that hurt European economies and failed to weaken Britain.
What was the purpose of the Congress of Vienna?
To restore balance of power and peace in Europe after Napoleon.
How did Enlightenment ideas inspire the French Revolution?
Ideas about equality, liberty, and democracy inspired people to question absolute monarchy and social inequality.
In what ways were the French and American Revolutions similar?
Both sought to end oppressive rule and promote individual freedoms.
How did the French Revolution create conditions for Napoleon’s rise?
The revolution weakened traditional institutions and created chaos, allowing a strong leader like Napoleon to take control.
How did the invasion of Russia contribute to Napoleon’s downfall?
The harsh winter and Russian tactics destroyed his army.
Who were the main participants in the Congress of Vienna?
Austria, Britain, Russia, Prussia, and France.
Explain the economic problems that contributed to the French Revolution.
Heavy debt, high taxes, and food shortages caused widespread suffering and anger.
Thanks Louis XIV
How did social class play a different role in the French Revolution compared to the American Revolution?
The French Revolution involved class conflict between the estates, while the American Revolution was mainly about colonial independence.
What was the significance of Napoleon’s coup d’état in 1799?
It ended the French Revolution and established Napoleon as leader of France.
What role did alliances among European powers play in Napoleon’s defeat?
European countries united against him and overwhelmed his forces.
How did the Congress of Vienna attempt to restore balance of power in Europe?
By redrawing borders and strengthening countries around France.
What role did the Third Estate play in the French Revolution?
They demanded political representation and economic equality. They represented the majority of the population but had very little power in the government.
How did the outcomes of the American and French Revolutions differ?
The American Revolution created a stable democracy, while the French Revolution led to political instability and dictatorship.
How did Napoleon gain the support of the French people?
He promised stability, economic reforms, and national glory.
How did Napoleon’s ambition ultimately lead to his exile?
His desire for conquest led to costly wars and eventual defeat.
What were the short-term and long-term effects of the Congress of Vienna?
Short-term peace in Europe, long-term rise of nationalism.
How did King Louis XVI’s leadership (or lack thereof) contribute to the revolution?
His indecisiveness and inability to address financial crises fueled public anger and calls for change.
The French Revolution and American Revolution were both inspired by the same ideas, but what made the French Revolution more extreme?
The French Revolution had more radical events like the Reign of Terror and executions.
What role did propaganda play in Napoleon’s rise to power?
Propaganda glorified his achievements and helped him gain popular support.
Which decision made by Napoleon do you think was the worst, and why?
The invasion of Russia was the worst because it led to massive losses and weakened his empire.
Did the Congress of Vienna succeed in achieving its goals? Why or why not?
It succeeded in maintaining peace for decades but failed to address growing nationalist movements.