A Tale of Two Revolutions
Visuals:
- French Revolution: Drawing of the Storming of the Bastille, a broken chain symbolizing freedom.
- American Revolution: Image of the American flag and a depiction of the Boston Tea Party.
Causes:
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French Revolution:
- Social Inequality: The Third Estate was heavily taxed while the nobility enjoyed wealth.
- Economic Hardship: Food shortages and expensive taxes led to anger.
- Influence of Enlightenment: Ideas of liberty and equality inspired people to seek change.
-
American Revolution:
- Taxation Without Representation: Colonists were taxed by a British Parliament they did not elect.
- Desire for Independence: Growing sense of American identity and the wish to govern themselves.
- British Control: Restrictions on trade and personal freedoms upset colonists.
Key Figures & Events:
-
French Revolution:
- Leader: Maximilien Robespierre
- Event: Storming of the Bastille (July 14, 1789) – This event marked the start of the revolution.
-
American Revolution:
- Leader: George Washington
- Event: Boston Tea Party (December 16, 1773) – A protest against British taxation.
Connections & Comparisons:
Similarities:
- Both revolutions sought to overthrow an unfair government.
- Each revolution inspired future movements for freedom worldwide.
- Both featured important leaders who rallied the people.
Differences:
- The French Revolution was driven by social classes, while the American focused on colonial independence.
- The French Revolution became very violent (Reign of Terror) while the American Revolution was more focused on military conflict.
- The French Revolution resulted in consistent government changes, while the American Revolution led to the establishment of a stable government.
Quote:
"Liberty, Equality, Fraternity!" – Slogan of the French Revolution
Key Terms:
- Revolution: A significant change in political power.
- Enlightenment: An intellectual movement that emphasized reason and individual rights.
- Independence: The state of being free from control by another country.
This one-pager summarizes the French and American Revolutions, reflecting their key elements and impacts in a colorful, engaging format.