History & Civics
Study the picture and answer the following question:
(a) Identify the event in the picture. When and where did it happen?
(b) What were the causes that led to this event?
(c) What is the significance of this event in the history of France?
Answer
(a) The event in the picture is the fall of Bastille (State Prison). It took place on 14th July, 1789 at Bastille.
(b) Bastille was being used as a prison as well as a storehouse for storing guns and ammunition. A new militia called the National Guard was formed by the electors of Paris that was loyal to the National Assembly. This militia needed weapons and therefore made their to Bastille on July 14 to obtain the same. But the Governor of Bastille ordered the troops to open fire on the crowd, which killed 98 people and injured many more. This led to crowd storming into Bastille and subsequently its fall.
(c) The fall of Bastille symbolised the victory of the people of France and the fall of Monarchy. Therefore, at present July 14 is celebrated as a National Holiday in France.
Related Questions
What were the salient features of the Constitution drafted by the National Constituent Assembly in 1791?
Explain how did the National Convention of 1792 change the system of government in France.
With reference to the French Revolution, write short notes on the following:
(a) The Role of French monarchy.
(b) Significance of the French revolution.
With reference to Napoleon's contribution, write about the following:
(a) The reforms initiated by Napoleon.
(b) The Continental system.
(c) Impact of Napoleonic Wars.
(d) Concordat.