CBSE Class 09 Social Science
Revision Notes
Chapter - 1
History - THE FRENCH REVOLUTION

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WOMEN’S REVOLUTION

From the very beginning women were active participants in the events which brought about so many changes in the French society. Most women of the third estate had to work for a living.Their wages were lower than those of men.

In order to discuss and voice their interests, women started their own political clubs and newspapers. One of their main demands was that women must enjoy the same political rights as men. Some laws were introduced to improve the position of women. Their struggle still continues in several parts of the world.

It was finally in 1946 that women in France won the right to vote.

THE ABOLITION OF SLAVERY

There was a triangular slave trade between Europe, Africa and Americas. In the 18th century,there was little criticism of slavery in France. No laws were passed against it. It was in 1794 that the convention freed all slaves. But 10 years later slavery was reintroduced by Napoleon. It was finally in 1848 that slavery was abolished in the French colonies.

THE REVOLUTION AND EVERYDAY LIFE

The years following 1789 in France saw many changes in the lives of men, women and children.The revolutionary governments took it upon themselves to pass laws that would translate the ideals of liberty and equality into everyday practice. One important law that came into effect was the abolition of censorship.

The ideas of liberty and democratic rights were the most important legacy of the French Revolution. These spread from France to the rest of Europe during the 19th century.

NAPOLEON BONAPARTE 

In 1804, Napoleon crowned himself emperor of France. He set out to conquer neighbouring European countries, dispossessing dynasties and creating kingdoms where he placed members of his family. He saw his role as a modernizer of Europe. He introduced many reforms which had long lasting effect on Europe. He was finally defeated at Waterloo in 1815.