## TL;DR

The French Revolution (1789-1799) overthrew the monarchy, established a republic, and fundamentally transformed French society and European politics. Ideals: Liberty, Equality, Fraternity. Marked the rise of modern nationalism, secularism, and the concept of universal human rights.

## Core Explanation

Causes: financial crisis, inequality (three estates: clergy, nobility, commoners), Enlightenment ideas. Events: Storming of the Bastille (July 14, 1789), Declaration of the Rights of Man, Reign of Terror (1793-94, Robespierre, guillotine), Napoleon's coup (1799). Legacy: metric system, Napoleonic Code (basis of European law), abolished feudalism, inspired revolutions worldwide.

## Further Reading

- [Citizens: A Chronicle of the French Revolution (Simon Schama)](https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/122581/citizens-by-simon-schama/)