National Assembly

Definition

The National Assembly was a revolutionary assembly formed by the representatives of the Third Estate in France during the early stages of the French Revolution, in 1789. It emerged as a response to the lack of representation and unfair voting practices that favored the nobility and clergy in the Estates-General. This assembly played a crucial role in asserting the rights of the common people and laid the groundwork for a new political order in France.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The National Assembly was formed on June 17, 1789, by members of the Third Estate who were frustrated with their exclusion from political power and representation.
2. It marked a significant turning point in the French Revolution as it signaled the rise of popular sovereignty and challenged the absolute authority of the monarchy.
3. The National Assembly initiated several important reforms, including the abolition of feudal privileges and the declaration of human rights through the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen.
4. The assembly faced opposition from King Louis XVI, who attempted to dissolve it, leading to increased tensions and ultimately contributing to the storming of the Bastille.
5. The National Assembly eventually evolved into the National Constituent Assembly as it worked toward drafting a constitution for France, establishing a constitutional monarchy.

Review Questions

• How did the formation of the National Assembly reflect the desires of the Third Estate during the early stages of the French Revolution?
  • The formation of the National Assembly was a direct response to the frustrations felt by members of the Third Estate regarding their lack of representation and power within the existing political system. By breaking away from the Estates-General, they sought to create a legislative body that genuinely represented their interests and challenges to social inequality. This move highlighted their determination to pursue political reform and assert their rights, setting in motion a series of events that would lead to significant changes in France's political landscape.
• Analyze how the Tennis Court Oath demonstrated the National Assembly's commitment to creating a new political order in France.
  • The Tennis Court Oath was a defining moment for the National Assembly, showcasing its members' unwavering commitment to establishing a new political order based on constitutional principles. By pledging not to disband until a constitution was drafted, they asserted their authority and unified purpose against royal authority. This act symbolized their determination to represent the will of the people and laid the foundation for democratic governance in France, marking a clear departure from monarchical rule.
• Evaluate the impact of the National Assembly on both French society and political structures during and after the Revolution.
  • The National Assembly significantly transformed French society by challenging traditional hierarchies and advocating for civil rights through legislation such as the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen. Its reforms aimed at abolishing feudal privileges led to sweeping social changes that promoted equality before the law. Politically, it laid down principles that influenced future governance structures in France, transitioning from absolute monarchy to constitutional monarchy, which inspired similar movements across Europe. The assembly's legacy was foundational in shaping modern democratic ideals and challenging autocratic rule.

Related terms

Third Estate: The social class in France that comprised commoners, including peasants, urban workers, and the bourgeoisie, who were largely underrepresented in the Estates-General.

Estates-General:

A general assembly representing the three estates of French society: the clergy (First Estate), the nobility (Second Estate), and commoners (Third Estate).

Tennis Court Oath:

A pivotal event where members of the National Assembly vowed not to disband until a new constitution was established, demonstrating their commitment to reform and change.