Reduce

Definition

In the context of the French Revolution, 'reduce' refers to the effort to lessen the power and privileges of the monarchy and the aristocracy while advocating for the rights and representation of the common people. This movement was fueled by Enlightenment ideas that challenged traditional hierarchies and demanded a more equitable society. Reducing these entrenched powers was central to the revolutionary goals of establishing a more democratic political system and addressing social inequalities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The reduction of royal power during the French Revolution culminated in the establishment of a constitutional monarchy in 1791, where King Louis XVI's authority was significantly limited.
2. Social inequalities were a primary motivation for revolutionaries, leading to the reduction of privileges held by the nobility and clergy through various reforms.
3. The revolutionary slogan 'Liberté, égalité, fraternité' reflects the goal to reduce disparities in rights and opportunities among all citizens.
4. The radical phase of the revolution sought to reduce opposition through the Reign of Terror, resulting in thousands being executed as suspected enemies of the revolution.
5. One of the lasting impacts of the French Revolution was the introduction of ideas about citizenship and human rights, aiming to reduce class divisions and promote equality across society.

Review Questions

• How did the Tennis Court Oath symbolize the revolutionary spirit focused on reducing monarchical power?
  • The Tennis Court Oath represented a collective decision by members of the Third Estate to take action against King Louis XVI's absolute rule. By vowing not to disband until they created a new constitution, they directly challenged the authority of the monarchy. This act embodied their commitment to reducing royal power and establishing a government that reflected the will of the people.
• In what ways did the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen contribute to reducing feudal privileges during the French Revolution?
  • The Declaration articulated fundamental rights that challenged feudalism by asserting that all men are born free and equal in rights. It abolished feudal privileges by emphasizing equal access to law and representation. This shift reduced the power dynamics between different social classes, laying groundwork for a society based on individual merit rather than noble lineage.
• Analyze how the Reign of Terror was both an effort to reduce threats to the revolution and a source of internal conflict within revolutionary France.
  • The Reign of Terror aimed to protect the revolution from perceived enemies by eliminating those who opposed its ideals, which resulted in widespread fear and paranoia. While it sought to reduce external threats through radical measures, such as mass executions, it also created internal conflict among revolutionaries themselves. The extreme tactics led some to question whether such methods aligned with revolutionary principles, ultimately contributing to divisions within revolutionary leadership.

Related terms

Tennis Court Oath:

A pivotal event where members of the Third Estate vowed not to disband until a new constitution was established, symbolizing their determination to reduce the king's absolute power.

Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen: A fundamental document that articulated the principles of individual rights and collective sovereignty, aimed at reducing feudal privileges and promoting equality.

Reign of Terror:

A period during the French Revolution marked by extreme measures to reduce perceived threats to the revolution, often through radical actions and executions.