What Role Did the Peasants Play in the French Revolution

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The Answer is The peasants played a significant role in the French Revolution. They were a major driving force behind the revolution, as they were burdened with heavy taxes and feudal dues, and they sought to overthrow the oppressive feudal system. The peasants were also influenced by Enlightenment ideas and were inspired by the success of the American Revolution.

In the early stages of the revolution in 1789, the peasants were instrumental in the storming of the Bastille and the widespread uprisings in the countryside. They demanded an end to feudal privileges and the redistribution of land. This led to the National Assembly abolishing feudalism and the privileges of the nobility in August 1789.

However, as the revolution progressed, the role of the peasants changed. The radical phase of the revolution, particularly during the Reign of Terror from 1793 to 1794, saw a shift in power away from the peasants. The radical Jacobin government, led by Maximilien Robespierre, implemented policies that aimed to centralize power and suppress dissent. This included the use of violence and mass executions to maintain control.

During this period, the peasants, who had initially been empowered by the revolution, became disillusioned with the radical government's policies. They faced economic hardship and were subjected to conscription and requisitioning of their crops for the war effort. This led to widespread unrest and uprisings in the countryside, as the peasants resisted the radical government's attempts to exert control over them.

In conclusion, the role of the peasants in the French Revolution evolved from being a driving force for change in the early stages to becoming disillusioned and resistant to the radical government's policies in the later stages. The revolution ultimately brought about significant changes in the social and political landscape of France, but the peasants' role and their experiences varied throughout the revolution.

What Role Did the Peasants Play in the French Revolution

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