The Rest Is History cover image

The Rest Is History

481. The French Revolution: The Women's March on Versailles (Part 7)

Aug 7, 2024
Tensions in Paris soared as the revolutionists divided over the monarchy's role. Amid rising bread prices, furious citizens, especially women, expressed their outrage. The lavish banquet at Versailles sparked a dramatic response, leading the peasant women to confront the royal family. This act of desperation profoundly changed the course of the revolution, showcasing women's vital role in political upheaval. The chaos that unfolded at Versailles epitomized the clash between a luxurious monarchy and a populace in dire need, culminating in a confrontation that would alter France's future.
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Quick takeaways

  • The October Days marked a significant turning point as the monarchy lost its untouchable status, becoming prisoners of the revolution.
  • Growing dissent over food shortages and rising bread prices galvanized mobs, prompting revolutionary actions against the royal family.

Deep dives

The October Days and Their Historical Significance

The October Days marked a pivotal moment in French history when King Louis XVI and Queen Marie Antoinette were effectively captured by a mob in a dramatic procession from the Palace of Versailles to Paris. The descriptions of the scene included the gruesome fate of the bodyguards and the people's chants of insults, demonstrating the overwhelming anger directed at the monarchy. This event signified a turning point, as the royal family was no longer seen as untouchable and instead became prisoners of the revolution. The implications reached beyond the royal family, affecting the very fabric of French governance and society during the revolution.

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