477. The French Revolution: The Violence Begins (Part 3)

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Jul 31, 2024

The podcast dives into the pivotal moments of the French Revolution, exploring the power struggles among elite factions and the rise of ambitious leaders like Jean-Joseph Meunier. It contrasts the Revolution's legacy on human rights with the English Revolution, highlighting the tension between idealism and reality. Discussions on financial turmoil underscore how economic crises fueled revolutionary sentiments, while historical tensions between monarchy and the Parlement catalyzed change. The July 1788 meeting marks a significant shift towards violence and demands for equal representation.

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INSIGHT

The French Revolution: A Controversial Legacy

The French Revolution is a divisive topic, viewed by some as a pivotal event and by others as a period of terror.
Its significance lies in its attempt to reshape society, influencing conservatism, nationalism, and political discourse.

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INSIGHT

France's Complexities under Louis XVI

Louis XVI inherited a complex kingdom, the largest in continental Europe, with a diverse population and regional variations.
While powerful, the kingdom faced challenges due to its antiquated hierarchies and the king's inability to reform the system.

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ANECDOTE

Louis XVI's Assertion of Power

Louis XVI, when challenged on the legality of his actions, declared, "It's legal because I say it is."
This reflects his weakness as a ruler, relying on the assertion of absolute power rather than navigating established institutions.

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Legacy of the French Revolution

02:18 • 14min

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Financial Turmoil and Revolutionary Sentiments

16:30 • 12min

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Seeds of Revolution: The Catalysts of Change

28:50 • 20min

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Power Struggles and Emerging Leadership in the French Revolution

48:52 • 2min

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The July Meeting: Seeds of Revolution

50:50 • 3min

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Constitutional Contrasts and the Prelude to Revolution

This biography by Stacy Schiff offers a comprehensive look at Samuel Adams's life and his significant impact on American history. With masterful storytelling, Schiff delves into Adams's relentless pursuit of liberty and justice, highlighting his enduring legacy in the context of the American Revolution.

Reflections on the revolution in France

Edmund Burke

Edmund Burke's "Reflections on the Revolution in France" is a powerful critique of the French Revolution, arguing that it was based on abstract principles that ignored the complexities of human society and the importance of tradition. Burke's work is a classic statement of conservative political philosophy, emphasizing the importance of gradual change, respect for institutions, and the dangers of radicalism. The "Reflections" remains a relevant and insightful commentary on the challenges facing modern societies. Burke's emphasis on prudence, tradition, and the importance of preserving social order continues to resonate with conservatives today. The book is a cornerstone of conservative political thought.

Citizens

A Chronicle of the French Revolution

Simon Schama

This book presents a detailed and engaging account of the French Revolution, covering the period from the late 1770s to the death of Robespierre in 1794. Schama avoids ideological interpretations, instead focusing on a chronicle of events, anecdotes, and biographical backgrounds of key figures. The book highlights the complexities and contradictions of the Revolution, including its impact on French society, the role of various social classes, and the eventual rise of Napoleon Bonaparte. It is praised for its thoughtful, informed, and revisionist approach to this pivotal historical event[1][3][4].

A Tale of Two Cities

Julius Julius Seybt

Francisco Manuel GRANADO CASTRO

Juan Ramon Torregrosa

leonardo pablo federico sanchez alonso

J. J. Bernier

Salustiano Masó Simón

Victor G Ambrus

Jose perez

Hablot K. BROWNE

Published in 1859, 'A Tale of Two Cities' by Charles Dickens is a historical novel that contrasts the lives in London and Paris during the late 18th century. The story revolves around characters such as Charles Darnay, Sydney Carton, and Lucie Manette, each dealing with love, sacrifice, and the profound societal changes brought about by the French Revolution. The novel critiques both the conditions leading up to the Revolution and the Revolution itself, highlighting themes of resurrection, sacrifice, and the potential for positive change. Dickens's vivid portrayal of the social disparities and political unrest of the era, along with his iconic opening lines, 'It was the best of times, it was the worst of times,' make the novel a compelling exploration of human resilience and societal issues[3][4][5].

The Oxford History of the French Revolution

William Doyle

William Doyle's "The Oxford History of the French Revolution" is a comprehensive and authoritative account of this transformative period. It likely covers the social, political, and economic factors that led to the revolution, detailing the key events and figures involved. The book probably provides a detailed analysis of the revolution's various phases, from the initial calls for reform to the Reign of Terror. Doyle's work likely offers a nuanced perspective on the revolution's complexities, considering the diverse motivations and consequences of the upheaval. It serves as a valuable resource for understanding this pivotal moment in European history.

With seismic antecedents such as the Glorious Revolution in England and the American War of Independence, what was it about the French Revolution that saw it become arguably the most important episode in all early modern political history? And what unique combination of factors converged to unleash this colossal, world-shaking event; the paradigmatic example of a people trying to reshape their society? By the start of the 18th century, France was the largest kingdom in continental Europe, and a powerhouse of agriculture, trade, and military might. But it was also a multilayered and very complex machine, still heavily founded in its ancient hierarchies and the dominion of the ancien régime. The King, Louis XVI, though in no way despotic and in some ways an enlightened man, did not have the strength to fix the creaking system he had inherited. And while the 18th century was an age of enormous dynamism, energy and modernity into which a new discourse of the self had been born, it was also a time of terrible violence in France, long before the revolution. The nation had also been running up stratospheric debts ever since the 1720s, and the poverty of the monarchy - the plight of every 18th century monarch - was exacerbated by its efforts to fund the American War against the British. Finally, the unravelling situation came to a head when, in 1786, Louis XVI was confronted with the news that the looming financial abyss had finally engulfed France, triggering a series of events that, from 1787, would unleash the doom-spiral of the revolution, and lead to his eventual overthrow…

Join Dominic and Tom as they discuss the causes behind the French Revolution. From the innovative, enlightened culture of 18th century France, set beside its enduringly hierarchical and deeply violent society, the amiable but feeble Louis XVI with his clueless finance ministers, to the American Revolution, financial cataclysms, and angry mobs.

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Looking for all of our episodes on the French Revolution? Check out The Rest Is History’s French Revolution playlist

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/37i9dQZF1DX6W9e1zgsgaG

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*The Rest Is History LIVE in the U.S.A.*

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*The Rest Is History LIVE at the Royal Albert Hall*

Tom and Dominic, accompanied by a live orchestra, take a deep dive into the lives and times of two of history’s greatest composers: Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and Ludwig van Beethoven.

Tickets on sale now at TheRestIsHistory.com

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Producer: Theo Young-Smith

Assistant Producer: Tabby Syrett

Executive Producers: Jack Davenport + Tony Pastor

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