The Storming of the Bastille set off a series of events that led to the overthrow of King Louis XVI and theFrench Revolution. The success of the revolutionaries gave commoners throughout France the courage to rise up and fight against the nobles who had ruled them for so long.

Causes of the Storming of Bastille
- Socio-economic grievances: The French people were facing severe economic hardships due to high taxes, food shortages, and unemployment. The Third Estate, which represented the common people, felt marginalized and oppressed by the aristocracy and clergy.
- Political discontent: The absolute monarchy of King Louis XVI and his refusal to address the grievances of the people led to widespread discontent. The lack of political representation and the outdated feudal system further fueled the desire for change.
- Influence of Enlightenment ideas: The Enlightenment thinkers like Voltaire, Rousseau, and Montesquieu had propagated ideas of liberty, equality, and fraternity. These ideas inspired the French people to question the existing social and political structures.
- Formation of the National Assembly: In response to the economic crisis and lack of political representation, the Third Estate declared itself as the National Assembly in June 1789. This marked a significant step towards challenging the authority of the monarchy.
- Dismissal of Necker: The dismissal of Jacques Necker, a popular finance minister, by King Louis XVI on July 11, 1789, further heightened tensions. Necker was seen as a symbol of reform and his removal was perceived as a threat to the people's interests.
- Rumors of a military coup: Fearing a crackdown by the royal troops, the people of Paris mobilized and began arming themselves. Rumors spread that the king intended to use force to suppress the growing dissent, leading to a sense of urgency among the revolutionaries.
- Symbol of tyranny: The Bastille, a fortress-prison in Paris, was seen as a symbol of tyranny and oppression. Storming the Bastille on July 14, 1789, not only provided the revolutionaries with weapons and ammunition but also symbolized the beginning of the French Revolution.