Overview

The French Revolution and the rise of Napoleon marked a turning point in European history. Revolutionary ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity challenged monarchies, reshaped political landscapes, and inspired both democratic and authoritarian responses throughout Europe.

Key Themes and Developments

• The French Revolution (1789–1799):
  • Causes: Economic crisis, Enlightenment ideas, social inequality, and weak leadership.
  • Phases:
    • Moderate Phase: National Assembly, Tennis Court Oath, Declaration of the Rights of Man.
    • Radical Phase: Reign of Terror, Committee of Public Safety, execution of Louis XVI.
    • Thermidorian Reaction: Fall of Robespierre and move toward moderation.
  • The Directory: Five-member executive body ruled from 1795–1799 amid corruption and instability.
• Napoleon Bonaparte:
  • Rose through military ranks; staged coup d'état in 1799 and became First Consul.
  • Domestic Policies: Napoleonic Code, educational reform, Concordat with the Church, meritocracy.
  • Military Campaigns: Created a vast empire through conquest; defeated at Leipzig (1813) and Waterloo (1815).
  • Downfall: Invasion of Russia (1812), exile to Elba, Hundred Days, final exile to St. Helena.
• Effects on Europe:
  • Spread of nationalism, secular legal systems, and modern state structures.
  • Challenged dynastic rule and planted seeds for future revolutions.
• Congress of Vienna (1815):
  • Led by Metternich, aimed to restore balance of power and legitimacy of monarchies.
  • Redrew European map and began the Concert of Europe.

Quick Tip

Revolution and empire reshaped Europe's political map and ideas of legitimacy. Know the phases of the French Revolution, Napoleon’s reforms, and how the Congress of Vienna tried to reverse revolutionary change while stabilizing Europe.