The French Revolution and Napoleon (1789-1815)

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What was the French Revolution?

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(17869-1815)The event in which the people of France overthrew their king (Louis XVI) and fought for more rights.

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What were the key causes of the French Revolution?

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1) Division of French society into three estates (social classes), with the Third Estate being mostly peasants having fewest rights and high taxes.

2) France being ruled by absolute monarchy with kings abusing power.

3) Enlightenment ideas inspiring change - French to overthrow their unfair kings.

4) France in economic crisis (debt) due to excessive spending by kings.

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What was the Declaration of the Rights of Man?

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A document written during the French Revolution that gave equal rights to the men of France and created a fair system of taxation.

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What was the Reign of Terror?

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An event where the leaders of the French Revolution executed thousands believed to be loyal to the king, led by the radical group Jacobins and their leader Robespierre.

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What were the key effects of the French Revolution?

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1) Execution of King Louis XVI by Robespierre and the Jacobins.

2) The middle class of France gained more power and rights.

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Who was Napoleon Bonaparte?

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The ruler who came to power at the end of the French Revolution and expanded French territory, fostering nationalism.

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What was Napoleon's major mistake that led to his defeat in 1812?

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Invading Russia during the winter, leading to the death of thousands of his soldiers due to the freezing climate. This same mistake was later made by Hitler during WWII.