What was the significance of the National Assembly?

The National Assembly, formed during the French Revolution in 1789, played a crucial role in shaping the course of the revolution and laying the foundation for modern democracy in France. Its significance can be understood by examining the key aspects below:

Representation and Unity:
- The National Assembly was established in response to the discontent and grievances of the Third Estate (commoners) who were largely excluded from political power.
- By forming the National Assembly, the representatives of the Third Estate aimed to give themselves a voice and represent the interests of the majority of the French population.
- This move fostered a sense of unity among the commoners and helped to mobilize them against the monarchy and the privileged classes.

Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen:
- The National Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen on August 26, 1789.
- This document proclaimed the fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals, including liberty, equality, and property rights.
- The declaration became a cornerstone of modern democratic principles and influenced the development of human rights globally.

Constitutional Reforms:
- The National Assembly played a central role in introducing constitutional reforms in France.
- It abolished the feudal system, which had imposed heavy burdens on the lower classes.
- The Assembly also implemented measures to limit the power of the monarchy and establish a constitutional monarchy, shifting power from the king to the elected representatives.
- These reforms marked a significant shift towards a more democratic system of governance.

End of Absolute Monarchy:
- The National Assembly's actions and reforms led to the downfall of the absolute monarchy in France.
- It stripped King Louis XVI of his powers and established a constitutional monarchy.
- This marked a turning point in French history, as it ended centuries of absolute rule and laid the groundwork for a more representative and participatory political system.

Symbol of Popular Sovereignty:
- The National Assembly represented the idea of popular sovereignty, which asserts that political power resides with the people.
- By forming the Assembly and making decisions on behalf of the people, it demonstrated the principle of self-governance.
- This idea of popular sovereignty influenced subsequent revolutions and the development of democratic movements worldwide.

In summary, the National Assembly was significant because it represented the interests of the commoners, introduced key reforms, and laid the foundation for modern democracy in France. Its actions during the French Revolution shaped the course of history and influenced the development of democratic principles globally.

National Assembly brought them as the spokesmen for whole France.The first group of national assembly included the third estate people who were disappointed from the state General Meeting and Abbe Sieyes and Mirabeau. They took oath not to disperse until they have drafted a constitution for whole France. On the night of 4 August 1789 the Assembly passed a decree abolishing the feudal system of obligations and Taxes. Members of the clergy were too forced to give up their privileges.The constitution was drafted in 1791. Its main objective was to limit the powers of Monarch. The powers were now separated and assigned to different Institutions the legislative , executive and judiciary. It began with a declaration of rights of man and citizens . Rights such as the right to live freedom of speech, freedom of opinion, equality before law was established as Natural and inalienable rights. It gave the power to vote to those people who weree above 25 years of age and paid the tax is equal to at least three days of a labourer's wage. Remaining men and all women were however left.