Events Leading up to the American and French Revolutions

Monarchy in Crisis

Aug 20, 1786

Charles Alexandre de Calonne proposed a financial reform package that included a universal land tax from which the privelaged classes would no longer be exempt. Royal finances are insolvent.

Notables

May 25, 1787

The notables will have to pitch in if actual bankruptcy is desired to be avoided. The first assembly of notables is dissolved. The notables gave advice on the Revolution but could not make any decisions.

Rise of the third estate

Dec 12, 1788

The second assembly of the noteables is dismissed, having firmly refused to consider doubling the representation of the third estate. The third estate was written shorty before the outbreak of the French Revolution.

Reveillon Riots

Apr 28, 1789

The Reveillon Riots took place in Paris. Caused by low wages and food shortages, lead to about 25 deaths by troops.

The Civil Constitution of the Clergy

Jul 12, 1790

Demands priests to take an oath of loyalty to the state, splitting the Clergy between juring and non-juring priests.

Bastille Anniversary

Jul 14, 1791

Second anniversary of the fall of the bastille is celebrated at the
Champ de Mars. Peasants stormed the Bastille prison in Paris in the French revolution.

Alliance of Austria and Prussia

Apr 20, 1792

France declares war on Austria, in turn Austria allies with Prussia. French Revolutionary Wars has begun.

Start of Reign of Terror

Sep 5, 1793

this occured after the onset of the French Revolution incited by conflict between rival political factions, and marked by mass executions of "enemies of the revolution."

Battle of Fleurus

Jun 26, 1794

French forces defeat austrians at the Battle of Fkeurus. In this battle the French used a reconnaissance balloon.

Constitution ratified

Aug 22, 1795

The convention ratified the new constitution and submitted it. The French Revolution brought inspiration to the U.S.