1774-1789: origins

• When did Louis XVI become king of France?

  In 1774
• Why was Louis XVI not expected to take the throne?

  His older brother and parents died.
• How old was Louis XVI when he became king?

  20 years old
• Who did Louis XVI marry and when?

  Marie-Antoinette in 1770
• What was Louis XVI's approach to reforming France?

  He wanted to reform but lacked understanding.
• What significant action did Louis XVI take regarding the Paris parlement?

  He reinstated it after it was suspended.
• What was one of the consequences of Louis XV's reign for Louis XVI?

  France lost the Seven Years War.
• What did Louis XVI do in response to the Thirteen Colonies' rebellion?

  He intervened and fought against Britain.
• What was the outcome of the war against Britain from 1778 to 1783?

  Britain accepted the independence of the United States.
• What financial impact did the war against Britain have on France?

  It enormously increased the crown's debts.
• What significant edict did Louis XVI sign in 1787?

  The Edict of Versailles
• What rights did the Edict of Versailles grant?

  It allowed Protestants and Jews to worship.
• What was a serious crime at the court of Versailles?

  Failure to acknowledge a superior.
• How did court factions operate at Versailles?

  They sought royal favors to maintain lifestyle.
• How much did the new gardens at Trianon cost?

  50,000 francs
• What was the impact of Marie-Antoinette's gambling habits?

  It led to complaints and criticisms.
• What criteria should historians use to assess sources about the French monarchy?

  Precise knowledge and limitations of sources.
• What are the key aspects of Louis XVI's character and reign?

  • Became king at 20 in 1774
  • Weak-willed and indecisive
  • Lacked understanding of politics
  • Desired to reform France
  • Faced issues producing an heir
  • Reinstated the Paris parlement
  • Increased crown debts due to wars
• What are the key aspects of Marie-Antoinette's life and reputation?

  • Known for extravagant spending
  • Faced criticism for gambling
  • Lived in isolation at Versailles
  • Changed clocks to attend dances
  • Complaints about her financial habits
• What were the social dynamics at the court of Versailles?

  • Elaborate etiquette system
  • Court factions sought royal favors
  • Intrigue and deceit prevalent
  • Serious consequences for social missteps
• Where did the lives of King and Queen center?

  Royal Court at Versailles
• What was the atmosphere at Versailles characterized by?

  Intrigue and deceit
• How could a word or glance from the King affect a courtier's career?

  It could make or break a career
• What was considered a serious crime in the court's etiquette?

  Failure to acknowledge a superior
• What type of monarchy did Louis XVI represent?

  Absolute monarchy
• What does Divine Right refer to in the context of Louis XVI's rule?

  His absolute powers as a monarch
• What was Louis XVI's authority regarding laws?

  He alone had the right to make laws
• What were lettres de cachet used for?

  To imprison those who opposed him
• How was French absolutism restrained?

  By customs of the land and nobles
• What was expected of Louis XVI in terms of governance?

  To maintain conventions and rule by law
• What did ruling 'by the law' entail for Louis XVI?

  Upholding Christian morality and rights
• What was the role of councils in the central government?

  To assist in governance
• Who were the intendants in the government structure?

  Officials representing the king in provinces
• What was the role of provincial governors?

  To manage local government
• What does venality refer to in the context of the Ancien Régime?

  Sale of public offices for profit
• What was the role of law and parlements in the Ancien Régime?

  To administer justice and uphold laws
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of the Ancien Régime's government structure?

  Strengths:

  • Centralized authority
  • Clear hierarchy of power
  • Established traditions

  
  

  Weaknesses:

  • Inefficiency in local governance
  • Resistance from nobles
  • Lack of representation for common people
• What does the term ancien régime refer to?

  French society before the Revolution
• How was the ancien régime similar to the middle ages?

  It had a similar social structure
• What is the term for the provincial nobility in the ancien régime?

  The remainder of the nobility