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The French Revolution is usually dated in three phases, with the storming of the Bastille in 1789 being a significant event. However, some historians date the beginning to the Grenoble rebellion in 1788. The second phase saw the execution of the king and queen, and the Reign of Terror. The third phase ended with Napoleon becoming Emperor, but true democracy was not achieved until after his downfall. The French also established a new calendar in 1792, causing some confusion in dating events.
The French Revolution is usually dated in three stages or sections. Often people consider the beginning of the French Revolution to be July 14, 1789, as this is the day angry citizens stormed the Bastille. Bastille Day is still a national holiday in France. However, the circumstances leading up to that day were also part of the ongoing uprising of the people against the French nobility.
Some date the beginning of the French Revolution to 1788. A major rebellion took place in Grenoble in June and July of that year. This was a mass refusal to pay taxes, which led to violence. Some historians date this insurrection as the very beginning of the French Revolution because it was the first organized effort to repel the efforts of the king’s will.
The French Revolution is often dated in three phases. The first phase of the French Revolution also included the people’s rejection of the monarchy, the emancipation of all black citizens, and the lifting of restrictions on people practicing Judaism.
Phase two of the French Revolution is considered to be between 1792-1794. Both the king and queen of France were executed during this period. Also, this time it constitutes what many call “The Reign of Terror.” Numerous other nobles and anyone who opposed the new regime were executed at this time.
The “Reign of Terror” is believed to have ended with the execution of revolutionary leader Robespierre and around 150 of his followers in July 1794. A calmer period followed as churches reopened. However, the French people still needed leadership, and like many with governments destabilized following a revolution, the choice of leader became the dictator Napoleon Bonaparte in 1799.
Most consider the end of the French Revolution to be 1799 when Bonaparte was made “First Consul”. However others date the end of the French Revolution and the third phase to 1804, when Napoleon became Emperor of France.
Although more freedom was now afforded to the people under Napoleon, in reality the initial goals of freedom and democracy were not achieved until Napoleon was finally deposed after Waterloo. Some date the beginning of democracy as the death of Napoleon in 1821.
To make matters more confusing, the initial forces of the revolution established a new calendar. In 1792, the Gregorian calendar was sent, and the French dated the start of the new year to September. Hence the dates relating to events during the next few years may be inaccurate, especially when referring to small details. The French reverted to the Gregorian calendar in 1806.
