The Era of the French Revolution, 1789-1799: Ten Years that Shook the World

Erupting out of the accumulated resentments against royal absolutism, the French Revolution forever destroyed a social order based upon aristocratic privilege. It became the central social and psychological fact in French history for the ensuing century. Yet is was far more. Its impact was felt throughout much of the continent; it became the rallying force for liberal reformers and the non-privileged social groups of Western Europe to whom its doctrines were already an unshakeable cause. In gripping narrative and readings, this book presents the most modern interpretation of what happened inside France and traces the impact of the Revolution on other nations.