Key Insights
Why did the French Revolution turn violent in August 1792?
The threat of Prussian and Austrian vengeance on Paris escalated tensions, putting the royal family in danger.
Why did the crowd storm the Tuileries Palace on August 10, 1792?
Led by National Guards and federe from Marseille, they sought to confront Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette.
Why did the French troops initially fail in their military campaign against Austria and Prussia?
Lack of discipline, distrust of officers, and unexpected resistance from the Austrians.
Why did the Girondins turn against the king in May 1792?
They sought scapegoats for the failed war and pointed to the king and queen as central agents of an Austrian plot.
Why did the sans-culottes target the royal family during their demonstration on June 20, 1792?
They believed the royal couple were betraying the revolution and siding with foreign powers.
Why did Lafayette's attempted coup fail in June 1792?
He neglected to bring troops with him and failed to gain support from the National Guard.
Why did the Prussian ultimatum issued on August 3, 1792, backfire?
It encouraged radicals to go all the way, believing they had nothing to lose if Paris was to be destroyed.
Why did the Swiss Guard face brutal retaliation during the storming of the Tuileries?
The crowd believed the Swiss Guard had been treacherous and set a trap for them.
Why did the Girondins pass a resolution to suspend Louis XVI on August 10, 1792?
The constitutional monarchy was deemed finished due to the violence and chaos of the insurrection.
Why did Danton set up a revolutionary tribunal in August 1792?
To appease the public's demand for vengeance and to address the perceived threat of counter-revolutionary elements.
Chapters
- Austrian and Prussian threats escalate tensions in Paris.
- Radical newspapers like Marat's 'L'Ami du Peuple' and Hebert's 'Père Duchesne' fuel paranoia and aggression.
- Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette are increasingly seen as traitors.
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