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The Estates-General, a representative assembly consisting of clergy, nobility, and commoners, is convened to address France's financial crisis and demands for political reform. This event marks the beginning of the revolution and highlights the growing discontent with the absolute monarchy. -
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Parisian revolutionaries storm the Bastille prison, a symbol of royal authority. This event is considered a turning point and a symbol of the people's uprising against the monarchy. -
The National Assembly adopts this revolutionary document, proclaiming individual rights and freedoms, such as liberty, property, and resistance against oppression. -
Thousands of women march from Paris to Versailles to demand bread and protest against the monarchy. They force King Louis XVI and the royal family to return to Paris. -
Robespierre is overthrown and executed, leading to the end of the Reign of Terror. This event ushers in a more moderate phase of the revolution. -
The former king is found guilty of treason and sentenced to death by guillotine. This event marks a significant shift in power and the radicalisation of the revolution. -
Led by Maximilien Robespierre, the Committee of Public Safety initiates a period of intense political repression. Thousands are executed, including nobles, clergy, and perceived enemies of the revolution. -
General Napoleon Bonaparte stages a coup d'état and becomes First Consul, consolidating his power. This paves the way for his eventual establishment as Emperor of France. -
Napoleon introduces a comprehensive civil code that consolidates revolutionary principles, including equality before the law and the protection of individual property rights. -
Napoleon's forces are defeated by a coalition of European armies led by the Duke of Wellington. This marks the final defeat of Napoleon and the end of the French Revolution.