**Notes and Questions on the French Revolution**

*Introduction*
The French Revolution was a period of radical social and political change in France from 1789 to 1799. It marked the end of the Bourbon monarchy, the rise of radical political factions, and the eventual ascent of Napoleon Bonaparte to power. The revolution had a profound impact on France and the world, influencing political ideologies, social structures, and the course of history.

**1. Causes of the French Revolution**
- Economic inequality: France was divided into three estates, with the clergy and nobility enjoying privileges and exemptions from taxes, while the commoners (Third Estate) bore the burden of taxation.
- Enlightenment ideas: The spread of Enlightenment philosophy emphasizing individual rights, liberty, and equality influenced the French people and led to a demand for political and social reforms.
- Financial crisis: France faced a severe financial crisis due to extravagant spending by the monarchy, costly wars, and an inefficient taxation system.

**2. Key Events and Phases**
- Estates-General: In 1789, Louis XVI called a meeting of the Estates-General to address the financial crisis, but the Third Estate declared themselves the National Assembly, leading to the Tennis Court Oath.
- Storming of the Bastille: On July 14, 1789, Parisians stormed the Bastille prison, a symbol of royal authority, marking the beginning of the revolution.
- Reign of Terror: Led by Maximilien Robespierre, the Committee of Public Safety implemented radical measures to suppress counter-revolutionaries, resulting in mass executions.
- Rise of Napoleon: After a series of political changes, Napoleon Bonaparte came to power in 1799, ending the revolution.

**3. Impact and Legacy**
- Rise of nationalism: The revolution fostered a sense of national identity among the French people and sparked nationalist movements across Europe.
- Spread of revolutionary ideals: The French Revolution inspired other nations to strive for liberty, equality, and fraternity, leading to revolutions and political changes in various parts of the world.
- End of feudalism: The revolution abolished feudal privileges and introduced legal and social reforms that aimed to establish a more egalitarian society.
- Consolidation of central power: The revolution led to the centralization of political power in France, with the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte as a military dictator.

**Questions for further exploration**
1. How did the economic inequalities in France contribute to the outbreak of the revolution?
2. Discuss the significance of the Storming of the Bastille in the context of the French Revolution.
3. Analyze the causes and consequences of the Reign of Terror during the revolution.
4. Assess the impact of the French Revolution on the status of women and their role in society.
5. To what extent did the French Revolution contribute to the rise of nationalism in Europe?

Remember to consult your textbook or class notes for more detailed information on the French Revolution.