From Absolute Monarchy to Democratic Republicanism By G for George Jun 20, 1787 Tennis Court Oath taken by National Assembly, pledging to draft a constitution. May 5, 1789 Estates-General convenes at Versailles. Jun 15, 1789 Third Estate declares itself the National Assembly. Jul 14, 1789 Storming of the Bastille in Paris; symbolizes the start of the French Revolution.