French Revolution & Facts

The French revolution laid the foundation of the modern world: 

• The French Revolution had been a world-shaking event. For years to come its direct influence was felt in many parts of the world. It inspired revolutionary movements in almost every country of Europe (German and Italian unification) and in South and Central America. 

• For a long time the French Revolution became the classic example of a revolution which people of many nations tried to emulate. 

• It gave the idea of liberty, equality and fraternity to the modern world. It brought about a political awakening in Europe. People began to rise in revolt to demand their rights. 

• It also popularized the concept of democracy. Absolute monarchy was replaced by constitutional monarchy in many countries. 

• It separated religion from politics and stood for secularism which condemned religious fanaticism. 

• It a number of movements where people demanded not only political freedom but also right to property and freedom of expression. 

• The revolution aroused the spirit of political, social and economic equality for instance, women claimed equal rights with men. 

• Some of the changes that took place in many parts of Europe and the Americas in the early 19th century were the immediate, direct consequences of the Revolution and the Napoleonic wars. 

• The French soldiers, wherever they went, carried with them ideas of liberty and equality shaking the old feudal order. They destroyed serfdom in areas which came under their occupation and modernized the systems of administration. 

• The political and social systems of the 18th century had received a heavy blow. They were soon to die in most of Europe under the impact of the revolutionary movements that sprang up everywhere in Europe.