5.Use the text to compare and contrast the French Revolution and the American Revolution.

The American and French Revolutions were separated by time period and location, yet they shared common themes. Like the American Revolution, the French Revolution was a revolt against an oppressive monarchy, which is a form of government in which one person rules, usually a king or queen. In America, the colonists wanted independence from British rule; the French, meanwhile, wanted independence from elite aristocrats in their own country. The two revolutions also shared an emphasis on Enlightenment ideals, which focused on the natural rights of all citizens. That said, the American Revolution sought only to make a change in government. The French Revolution, however, aimed to change far more about society: social structure, economy, and religion.

(2 points)
The French Revolution The American Revolution
Was caused by a desire to be free from a monarchy

Was affected by Enlightenment thought

Sought to change the country's social structure

1 answer

Here’s a comparison of the French Revolution and the American Revolution based on the information provided:

| The French Revolution | The American Revolution | |---------------------------------------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------| | Was caused by a desire to be free from elite aristocrats | Was caused by a desire to be free from British rule | | Was affected by Enlightenment thought | Was affected by Enlightenment thought | | Sought to change the country's social structure, economy, and religion | Sought primarily to change the government structure |

Comparison:

  • Both revolutions were driven by a desire to break free from oppressive rule, whether from aristocrats in France or the British monarchy in the American colonies.
  • Both revolutions were influenced by Enlightenment ideals, which emphasized natural rights and equality.

Contrast:

  • The French Revolution aimed for a complete overhaul of society, including its social structure, economy, and religious institutions, while the American Revolution focused mainly on altering the government and securing independence from British control.