S.5 History French Revolution Caltec S.5

The French Revolution 1789 – 1799. EUROPE ON THE EVE OF THE FRENCH REVOLUTION On the eve of the French Revolution of 1789, Europe was divided into two regions, namely; Western Europe which comprised Britain, France, Holland and Eastern Europe composed of Prussia, the Hapsburg Empire, and the Turkish Empire. It should also be noted that on the eve of the French Revolution, Europe was characterised by the following: - 1. Lack of political unity and uniformity: There existed small states as well as big ones with sovereigns, semi -sovereigns, despotism, e.g. Turkey, Russia, France and Pru ssia. It was only Britain which had a constitutional monarchy. 2. Theocratic character: Most states operated in partnership with the Church and these states were run in accordance with the principles of Christianity. In most states, the Church controlled the education sector. In Prussia, Britain, the Netherlands and Switzerland, the Protestant Church was in control, while Russia was given excessive control over the Orthodox Church. Thus in Catholic Europe, the Pope was very influential. The Church had vast amounts of land, collected taxes, enjoyed feudal privileges and commanded political, economic and social influence. The Islamic states were run according to the sharia law and were very intolerant to the Christians. Generally speaking, there was religious intolerance which later came under serious criticism of the Philosophers 3. Belief in divine right by majority of the rulers: Kings were seen as representatives of God and responsible to him. 4. Influence of the Aristocracy: Most rulers were Despots though in the 18th Century, they were referred to as enlightened Despots. The people (masses) had no hand in administration. They (rulers) enjoyed many privileges in Europe, power rested not with the people but with the Aristocracy. They opposed progressive steps and they maintained the status quo. 5. …