Delve into the French Revolution and the attempted escape of the royal family. Explore the unstable state of the Revolution and the rise of enemies. Learn how anti-clerical attitudes were used to challenge authority. Discover the role of political clubs and societies in the revolution. Uncover the motivations behind the royal family's flight. Explore the involvement of a Swedish nobleman in their escape. Discuss the failed escape and the end of the monarchy.
The French Revolution was marked by instability and division between the left and right factions.
Republican sentiment and anti-clerical attitudes fueled radicalization in Paris.
The failed escape attempt of King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette revealed deep divisions within the monarchy and marked a turning point in the revolution.
Deep dives
The French Revolution was unstable and divided
By 1791, the French Revolution was facing instability and division. The political spectrum ranged from far left to far right, with conservatives, democratic deputies, and constitutional monarchists. The left and the right were gaining power on the streets and in the provinces, while the center struggled to form alliances. The nation itself was becoming increasingly radicalized and polarized as the revolution continued.
The Rise of Republicanism and Anti-Clerical Sentiment
Republican sentiment and anti-clerical attitudes were spreading amongst the people, particularly in Paris. Political clubs and societies propagated ideas of equality, fraternity, and liberty. Publications and pamphlets criticized the King's involvement in legislation, his authority over the public service, and the distinction between active and passive citizens. The far left grew in influence, while the church and aristocracy fueled counter-revolutionary sentiment.
The Failed Plan to Escape Paris
The royal family attempted to escape Paris in June 1791. Disguised as servants, they planned to travel to the northeastern frontier and seek refuge in the Austrian-occupied Belgium. Delays, including a broken carriage wheel and missed rendezvous with military escorts, hindered their progress. Suspicion grew, and they were intercepted in the town of Varennes by local officials who recognized them. The attempted escape dashed the hopes of King Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, marking a turning point in the revolution.
Suspicion Surrounding the Flight Plan
Historians debate whether the flight plan was driven by the king's guilt over religious reforms, the queen's secret diplomacy with the Austrian court, or the respond to a forgery purporting to be from the Austrian emperor. Marie Antoinette feared the intentions of the emigrants, worried about being sacrificed by them, and believed their regime could be worse than the revolutionaries'. The failure to leave Paris revealed the depth of division and suspicion within the monarchy.
The Royal Family's Capture in Varennes
Despite successfully leaving Paris, the royal family was captured in Varennes. Suspicion arose when a postmaster, Drewer, recognized them and reported his suspicion. They were intercepted by local officials and informed that they were to be apprehended and returned to Paris according to a decree from the National Assembly. The failed escape attempt marked a significant setback for the monarchy and set the stage for further challenges in the French Revolution.
The King escapes Paris in the famous Flight to Varennes. As the revolution was devoured by the left and the right, what was the true catalyst for Louis' decision to flee? What prevented the daring escape from succeeding?
