Bastille Day

Bastille Day, known in French as "La Fête Nationale" or "Le 14 juillet," is a national holiday in France that commemorates the storming of the Bastille prison on July 14, 1789. This event marked the beginning of the French Revolution and the eventual downfall of the absolute monarchy in France. Bastille Day is celebrated with parades, fireworks, and various cultural events throughout France.

Key Events and Significance

The storming of the Bastille was a pivotal event in the French Revolution. The Bastille was a fortress and political prison in Paris, and its fall symbolized the people's rejection of the oppressive monarchy and their demand for liberty, equality, and fraternity.

Key events and significance of Bastille Day include:

• Storming of the Bastille: On July 14, 1789, a crowd of Parisian revolutionaries stormed the Bastille, which was seen as a symbol of royal tyranny. The fall of the Bastille became a turning point in the French Revolution.
• Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen: Shortly after the storming of the Bastille, the National Constituent Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen, emphasizing the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity.
• Abolition of Feudalism: The revolutionaries also abolished feudal privileges and the feudal system, leading to significant social and political changes in France.

Celebrations and Traditions

Bastille Day is celebrated with various traditions and festivities across France. Some of the key celebrations include:

• Parades: Colorful parades featuring military units, historic reenactments, and traditional costumes take place in cities and towns across France.
• Fireworks: Spectacular firework displays illuminate the skies in the evening, creating a festive atmosphere.
• Concerts and Cultural Events: Music concerts, street performances, and cultural events showcase the rich heritage and diversity of French culture.
• Public Gatherings: People gather in public squares and parks to celebrate with picnics, dancing, and unity.

Study Guide Questions

1. What was the significance of the storming of the Bastille in the context of the French Revolution?
2. How did the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen reflect the ideals of the revolutionaries?
3. Describe the key traditions and celebrations associated with Bastille Day.
4. What role did the storming of the Bastille play in the eventual downfall of the absolute monarchy in France?

Use this study guide to deepen your understanding of Bastille Day and its historical significance in the context of the French Revolution.