CBSE Class 9 History Chapter 1 Notes - The French Revolution

Before the French Revolution

Before the French revolution, the French territories and society were like an ancient regime. They had feudal lords who had taken over the political system of the country. The French society was divided into three Estates. They were the clergy, the nobility and the peasants and workers. The upper two estates were closer to the royals and hence received favours easily. The others had to pay multiple taxes and had a life of suffering.

The Initial Stage of the Revolution

• When King Louis XVI sat on the throne, the financial condition of France was horrible.

• The king decided to convene the Estates-General to put more taxes upon the citizens on the Finance Minister’s advice.

• The votes of the Estate General used to happen on a per Estate basis.

• The people of the Third Estate demanded that the votes should happen on a per head basis.

• The King did not agree with such a proposal so the representatives of the Third Estate walked out of the assembly.

The Tennis Court Oath

The representatives of the Third Estate formed a National Assembly where they tried to draft a constitution that would limit the powers of the monarchy. The King and the Clergy ultimately conceded to the National Assembly. The legislative powers then shifted from the hands of the King to the National Assembly.

The newly created Legislative Assembly was divided into various political groups.

• The Constitutionalists

• The Republicans (The Girondins and The Jacobins)

The Rise of The Jacobins

Due to war, France faced havoc. The Girondins lost power and the Jacobins became the rulers. They declared France a Republic but it lost its value when they turned into tyrants. It was a brutal period of terror that the French had to face. Their leader, Robespierre was killed in 1794.

The Rise of The Middle Class

• The middle class became powerful in the National Convention after the Jacobins left power.

• The National Convention again created a new constitution.

• Now, the Legislative Assembly has become bicameral.

• There were 5 directors in the Executive.

• Two-thirds of the members were from the National Convention.

• The public did not receive it well and attacked the convention in 1795.

• Napoleon, who stopped this attack later became the commander in chief of the French Army and also the supreme leader of France in 1799.

List of Important Dates and Years Related to The French Revolution Class 9 Notes

French Revolution Class 9 Notes - Interesting Facts

The French Revolution was a significant event in history that brought about radical political and social changes in France during the late 18th century. Here are some interesting facts about the French Revolution:

1. The French Revolution began on July 14, 1789, with the storming of the Bastille prison in Paris. This event is considered a symbol of the revolution and is celebrated as Bastille Day in France.

2. The French Revolution was fueled by ideas of the Enlightenment, such as liberty, equality, and fraternity. It aimed to overthrow the absolute monarchy and establish a more democratic government.

3. The Reign of Terror, which lasted from 1793 to 1794, was a period of intense violence and political repression during the French Revolution. It resulted in the execution of thousands of people, including King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette.

4. The French Revolution introduced the metric system, which is still widely used today. It was implemented to standardize measurements and facilitate trade and communication.

5. During the revolution, the French calendar was also changed. The Gregorian calendar was replaced with the French Republican Calendar, which had a ten-day week and new names for the months.

6. The French Revolution had a profound impact on the arts and culture. It gave rise to revolutionary ideals in literature, music, and visual arts, with artists and writers expressing their support or criticism of the revolution through their works.

7. Napoleon Bonaparte, a military general who rose to power during the revolution, eventually became the Emperor of France. His rule marked the end of the revolution and the beginning of the Napoleonic era.

8. The French Revolution inspired similar movements in other countries, spreading the ideals of liberty, equality, and nationalism throughout Europe and beyond.

9. Women played a significant role in the French Revolution. They actively participated in political clubs, marched on Versailles to demand bread, and advocated for their rights through pamphlets and petitions.

10. The French Revolution had a long-lasting impact on the political landscape of Europe. It led to the rise of nationalism, the spread of revolutionary ideas, and the eventual downfall of monarchies in various countries.

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Conclusion

The CBSE Class 9 History Chapter 1 notes - The French Revolution, available as a free PDF download, offer a comprehensive and insightful exploration of one of the most significant events in world history. This chapter delves into the causes, key events, and consequences of the French Revolution, providing a deeper understanding of its impact on society, politics, and human rights.

The French Revolution class 9 notes begin by introducing the historical context that led to the outbreak of the French Revolution. They cover the social, economic, and political factors that contributed to the discontent among the French population and the call for change.

Moreover, the French Revolution Class 9 Notes CBSE History Chapter 1 provide an in-depth analysis of the major phases and events of the revolution, including the storming of the Bastille, the rise of the Jacobins, the Reign of Terror, and the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte. Through these events, students gain insights into the power struggles, ideologies, and conflicts that shaped the course of the revolution.