A level HISTORY: The French Revolution
Context
The Year 12 course will focus on the French Revolution. The course begins in 1774 with King Louis XVI becoming King. The main questions why will examine are as follows:
· Why was there a French Revolution in 1789?
· How did the revolution become more radical?
· What did the Terror of 1794 develop and why did it fail?
In order to prepare you for the course, I would like you to complete the following tasks.
Task 1: The American Revolution
Your enquiry into the American Revolution will help you understand why revolutions happen and why they can sometimes succeed. Research the following topics and write at least a detailed paragraph on each section.
1. Why did the Americans revolt against British rule by 1776?
2. Why were the Americans able to defeat the British by 1783? What role did France play in this victory?
3. How did the American Revolution affect France (Consider finance, politics and new ideas)
We will share these ideas at the start of the course -
Task 2: The powers of the French King
We will see that Louis XVI was a very unsuccessful king, but part of the problem is that he was trying to work within a system of being an absolute monarch – created by his great, great grand father, Louis XIV – The Sun King Watch this video -
and Read Louis XIV: Sun King, Spouse & Versailles - HISTORY
1. Why is King Louis XIV remembered as an important French King?
2. Why were Louis’ early years very difficult?
3. How did Louis rule France after 1661?
4. Why is the building of the Palace of Versailles important?
Read www.biography.com/royalty/louis-xv
5: Look at the reign of Louis XV - Can you see any long term causes of the French Revolution
Extra viewing - The following is not compulsory but will help you understand the period
Lucy Worsley and Helen Castor examine the Palace of Versailles of Louis XIV. It links to a BBC drama series called Versailles
A drama documentary on the Palace of Versailles under Louis XIV's grandson - Louis XV. Please be aware that it is a bid rude in places
I would strongly recommend you purchase the textbook below. We have copies in school but your own copy will be very useful