Storming of the Bastille

Definition

The Storming of the Bastille was a pivotal event on July 14, 1789, during the early stages of the French Revolution when revolutionaries stormed the fortress-prison known as the Bastille in Paris. This act symbolized the uprising against tyranny and the fight for liberty, marking a significant turning point in the revolution by demonstrating the power of the people against the monarchy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Storming of the Bastille is often considered the symbolic start of the French Revolution and is celebrated annually in France as Bastille Day.
2. The Bastille was seen as a symbol of royal tyranny, as it held political prisoners and was a physical representation of the king's authority.
3. The attack on the Bastille involved around 800 Parisians who were motivated by rumors that King Louis XVI was planning to suppress the revolution.
4. The fall of the Bastille resulted in a significant cache of weapons and ammunition being secured by revolutionaries, empowering their cause.
5. The event galvanized revolutionary fervor across France, inspiring uprisings in other cities and leading to a wave of revolutionary activity against feudalism.

Review Questions

• How did the Storming of the Bastille reflect the growing discontent among the French populace?
  • The Storming of the Bastille showcased the escalating anger and frustration among ordinary citizens towards King Louis XVI's regime. The act demonstrated their willingness to confront authority directly after years of suffering from high taxes, food shortages, and political repression. The successful storming became a rallying point for those seeking change and highlighted a shift in power dynamics, as it illustrated that common people could challenge and overcome state power.
• Analyze how the fall of the Bastille influenced subsequent events in the French Revolution.
  • The fall of the Bastille had a profound impact on subsequent events in the French Revolution by providing momentum for radical change. It not only signaled to others across France that revolution was possible but also empowered groups like the National Assembly to take bolder actions against royal authority. This event fueled further uprisings, leading to significant reforms including the abolition of feudal privileges and ultimately paving the way for more radical phases in revolutionary politics.
• Evaluate how the Storming of the Bastille is viewed historically and its significance in shaping modern democratic ideals.
  • Historically, the Storming of the Bastille is viewed as a critical moment in establishing democratic ideals such as liberty, equality, and fraternity. It represents a collective assertion against oppression and has been symbolically linked to struggles for freedom around the world. The event's legacy influences contemporary discussions about citizen rights and government accountability, reinforcing that revolutions can be sparked by popular action against tyrannical rule. This shaping of modern democratic principles underscores its importance beyond just French history.

Related terms

French Revolution: A period of radical social and political change in France from 1789 to 1799 that led to the overthrow of the monarchy and established a republic.

National Assembly: A revolutionary assembly formed by the representatives of the Third Estate in France, which proclaimed itself as the legitimate government during the revolution.

Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen: A fundamental document of the French Revolution that outlines individual and collective rights, asserting principles like liberty, equality, and fraternity.