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Beginning of the Estates General
King Louis XVI called a meeting of the three social classes (clergy, nobles, and commoners) to discuss France’s financial crisis, but it led to demands for change. -
STORMING OF THE BASTILLE
The French Revolution began when angry Parisians stormed the Bastille, a prison that symbolized the king’s power. They wanted weapons and to stand against tyranny. -
Declaration of the Rights of Man and the Citizen
A key document of the revolution that stated all men are born free and have equal rights, including liberty, property, and security. -
Declaration of the Rights of Woman and the Citizen
A document by Olympe de Gouges demanding equal rights for women, inspired by the Declaration of the Rights of Man. -
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The Terror
A period of extreme violence during the revolution where thousands, including King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette, were executed by guillotine. -
Execution of Louis XVI
King Louis XVI was executed by guillotine after being found guilty of treason. -
The Terror
From 1793 to 1794. A period of extreme violence during the revolution where thousands, including King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette, were executed by -
Coup d’État of Thermidor
Revolutionary leader Robespierre was arrested and executed, ending the Reign of Terror. -
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The Directory
A government run by five leaders that was weak and corrupt, leading to Napoleon’s rise to power. -
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The Consulate
Napoleon ruled France as First Consul, making important reforms before declaring himself Emperor. -
Coup d’État of Brumaire
Napoleon overthrew the government and became the leader of France, marking the end of the revolution. -
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The Empire
Napoleon crowned himself Emperor of France and expanded his empire across Europe before being defeated. -
Battle of Austerlitz
One of Napoleon’s greatest victories, where he defeated Russian and Austrian forces in a brilliant military strategy. -
Exile in Elba
Napoleon was forced to give up his throne and sent to the island of Elba, but he later escaped. -
Louis XVIII, king of France
Restored the Bourbon monarchy in France. -
Congress of Vienna
Starts in 1 November 1814 to 9 June 1815. European leaders met to restore order after Napoleon’s fall. It redrew Europe’s map and reestablished monarchies. -
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Exile in St. Helena
After losing at Waterloo, Napoleon was sent to the island of St. Helena, where he spent the rest of his life. -
Battle of Waterloo
Napoleon’s final battle, where he was defeated by British and Prussian armies. -
Death of Napoleon
Napoleon died in exile on St. Helena, likely from illness, though some suspect poisoning. -
Independence of Greece
Greece gained independence from the Ottoman Empire. -
Spanish Liberal Biennium
From 28 June 1854 to 14 July 1856. A liberal revolution led to progressive reforms in Spain. Ended when moderates and the crown suppressed the movement.