- 1789 is not only one of the most important years in French history, it is also central to European history.
- As events escalated out of Louis XVI’s control, resulting in the collapse of the Ancien Régime in France, new structures were created.
- The emergence of a more democratic system of govt as a consequence of popular upheaval set a precedent for other people in Europe.
Key Dates
Estates-General Meeting
- All three Estates met on 5 May 1789 aimed to stop absolute rule and to limit the King with an elected assembly.
- The Third Estate declared themselves National Assembly on June 17. The Clergy voted to join on June 19th.
- A royal session was prepared by the King to announce reforms in reaction on June 23.
- The Third Estate were not allowed in their usual hall on 20th June as it was being prepared for the Royal Session. They instead met outside in a tennis court…
Tennis Court Oath
- Call to remain united.
- Pledged to remain until the constitution was written “upon solid foundations”
