The fall of Bastilles was applauded
in France and elsewhere as the greatest and most significant event of
the century. It signified the fall of despotism’ the end of lettress
de-cachet and other forms-of oppressions in France. This was because the
Bastilles was a symbol of despotism where the victims of
lettres-de-cachet were thrown.
ii) Its fall led to
the release of prisoners most of whom were innocent. However, the freed
prisoners took up to revenge against those who had imprisoned them
(nobles). They killed such nobles and looted their farms and homes.
iii)
The fall of Bastilles ushered in violence not only in Paris and other
surrounding provinces but also in other districts. The revolutionaries
acquired more arms, which they used against the hated nobles and clergy.
iv)
The violent destruction of the Bastilles and the violent events that
followed forced the Émigrés in to exile (under the leadership of
comte-de-Artois). This is yet significant because the émigrés later re-
mobilized against the revolutionaries who contributed to the reign of
terror and war with other powers in Europe.
v) It
also led to the dissolution of the Royal guard which was replaced by the
National Guard. The National Guard was to protect the revolution and
all what it stood for i.e. its achievements. It was under the command of
Lafayette, the hero of American war of independence and Trour, the vice
president of the national assembly. Foreign troops were withdrawn
immediately and to avoid chaos Necker was reinstated.
vi)
The National flag of France was changed from the white colour to the
current tri-colour of red, white and blue. This symbolized a change from
the Bourbon monarchy to the revolution.
vii)The
storming of Bastilles was quickly followed by an almost complete
decentralization of government. Anew government was formed to govern
Paris only while the king was in charge of Versailles. The appointed
Royal intendants in the local government were replaced by elected
council leaders signifying the rise of democracy in France.
Viii)The
success of the revolutionaries bonded the 3rd estate together and gave
them courage to fight for more reforms. It became a day for liberty not
only in France but the whole world. Indeed this event is so important
that 14th July has remained a day of national celebrations in France,
However^
the event of the fall of Bastilles was very unfortunate. Several
captives of the garrisons were murdered. Even the governor, De-Launay
who ordered his troops to surrender was beheaded and his head r/as
paraded around Paris on a pike. This was despotism and violence of the
highest order.
Attachments
No attachments
No comments:
Post a Comment