French Revolution

The French Revolution (1789–1799) was a period of ideological, political and social upheaval in the political history of France and Europe as a whole. During this period France, previously an absolute monarchy with feudal privileges for the aristocracy and Catholic clergy, underwent radical change to forms based on Enlightenment principles of republicanism, citizenship, and rights. These changes were accompanied by violent turmoil during the Reign of Terror, and warfare involving every other major European power (see French Revolutionary Wars).

The Revolution was originally a popular uprising against the absolute power of the king and against the privileges and wealth of the elite, and was conducted in the name of liberty, equality and fraternity.