What kind of political and Constitutional changes was brought about by...
**Political Changes**
1. **End of Monarchy**: The French Revolution led to the overthrow of the Bourbon monarchy and the establishment of a republic. King Louis XVI was executed in 1793, and power shifted from a hereditary monarchy to a government elected by the people.
2. **Reign of Terror**: During the revolution, a period known as the Reign of Terror occurred. It was characterized by mass executions of those considered enemies of the revolution. The Committee of Public Safety, led by Maximilien Robespierre, implemented radical policies to protect the revolution from internal and external threats.
3. **Rise of Jacobin Club**: The Jacobin Club emerged as a powerful political faction during the revolution. They advocated for radical changes and played a significant role in the downfall of the monarchy. The club's influence led to the establishment of the Committee of Public Safety and the implementation of revolutionary policies.
4. **Centralization of Power**: The revolution brought about a centralization of power in the hands of the government. The Committee of Public Safety wielded immense authority, and local governments were abolished in favor of a more centralized administration.
5. **Expansion of Suffrage**: The revolution expanded suffrage by granting voting rights to all male citizens, regardless of property ownership. This marked a shift towards the concept of universal suffrage, although it was limited to men at the time.
**Constitutional Changes**
1. **Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen**: The National Assembly issued the Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen in 1789. This document proclaimed the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity. It served as a foundation for the revolution's ideals and influenced future constitutional developments.
2. **Constitution of 1791**: The French Revolution led to the adoption of the Constitution of 1791. It established a constitutional monarchy, with a unicameral legislature and limited powers for the king. The constitution also guaranteed individual rights and freedoms.
3. **Constitution of 1793**: The Constitution of 1793, although never fully implemented, reflected more radical ideals of the revolution. It abolished the monarchy, established a democratic republic, and introduced social rights such as the right to work and public assistance.
4. **Napoleonic Constitution**: Following the revolution, Napoleon Bonaparte came to power and introduced his own constitution in 1804. It concentrated power in the hands of the First Consul (later Emperor), limiting individual freedoms and establishing a more authoritarian regime.
5. **Legacy**: The French Revolution's constitutional changes had a lasting impact on the world. It inspired other nations to pursue democratic ideals and influenced the development of constitutional frameworks in various countries. The revolution's emphasis on individual rights and popular sovereignty shaped modern political thought and continues to shape the world today.
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