📖 Introduction

The French Revolution (1789–1799) was one of history's most dramatic political changes. France went from being ruled by a powerful king with absolute power to becoming a republic — a country governed by elected representatives of the people. Use this worksheet to explore the key events that caused this massive shift in power.

Key terms to know: Absolute monarchy = one ruler with total power over everyone. Republic = a system where people choose their leaders through voting.

🕰️ Part 1: Timeline — Fill in the Phases

Below are the key phases of the French Revolution's political changes. For each phase, write a brief explanation in your own words (1–2 sentences) and draw a simple symbol or image in the box to represent it.

King Louis XVI ruled France with complete power. The people had no say in how the country was run.

In your own words, what is an absolute monarchy?

Draw a symbol to represent absolute monarchy:

Many French people were angry. There was not enough food, taxes were unfair, and ordinary people had no political power.

List two reasons why French people were unhappy with the king's rule:

1. ___________________________________________________________________________

2. ___________________________________________________________________________

Representatives of the people came together to form the National Assembly — a new governing body that challenged the king's power.

Why was the creation of the National Assembly an important political change?

King Louis XVI was put on trial by the National Convention and found guilty of treason. He was executed on 21/01/1793.

What does the execution of the king tell us about how much power had shifted away from the monarchy?

France was declared a republic — power now belonged to elected representatives of the people, not a king.

Draw a symbol to represent the new French Republic (e.g. the tricolour flag, a symbol of liberty, or people voting):

✏️ Part 2: Cause and Effect + Reflection

Causes:

A. The king had total power and ignored the needs of ordinary people.

B. The National Assembly challenged royal authority.

C. The king was found guilty of betraying France.

Effects:

____ The king was put on trial and executed.

____ People grew angry and began to demand change.

____ Power began to shift from the king to elected representatives.

After the French Revolution, France became a:

Sentence starter: "Before the revolution, the king... After the revolution, the people..."