The American and French Revolutions were two significant events that impacted the world, with the former leading to the formation of the United States, and the latter ending absolute monarchy in France. Both revolutions challenged political and social orders that had evolved over an extended period. Although there were similarities, the American Revolution was more of a separation between the colonies and Britain, while the primary goal of the French Revolution was to overthrow their monarch. Both events marked the beginning of a new era, inspiring other societies to stand up for their rights and freedoms, making them crucial milestones in world history.
The American Revolution vs. the French Revolution: A Comparison of Two Important Revolutions in History
Revolutionary events are milestones in the history of a nation, challenging political and social orders that have evolved over an extended period. The American and French Revolutions have a notable impact on the world, the first leading to the formation of the United States of America and the second leading to the end of absolute monarchy in France. Despite a few similarities, the American Revolution and the French Revolution are two distinct and essential revolutions that defined the course of human history. Here are the comparisons and contrasts of these two remarkable events.
Background and Causes
The American Revolution began in 1765, with an uprising in the thirteen colonies that challenged British economic policies and raised the alarm against the lack of representation in the British Parliament. In contrast, the French Revolution started in 1789 with a stale economy, a series of costly wars, and the dismissal of the Estates-General by France’s King Louis XVI. The American Revolution was more of a separation between the colonies and Britain while the primary goal of the French Revolution was to overthrow their monarch.
Leaders and Influencers
The American Revolution had leaders like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, and Benjamin Franklin, who played a crucial role in driving the revolution. They were thinkers who believed in the ideals of democracy, individualism, and the unalienable rights of man. In contrast, the French Revolution’s leaders were less in number and less influential than their American counterparts. The French Revolution had Robespierre, Marat, and Danton, whose actions were characterized by violence and radicalism.
Governmental Changes
After the American Revolution, the federal government was formed that allowed for the voting system, public education and contributed to the rise of an industrial economy. The US government became a democracy, a constitutional republic that placed power in the hands of the people. In contrast, the French Revolution saw the end of the Bourbon monarchy, creating a republic that started with the Reign of Terror, which was a period of brutality and massive bloodshed that led to the execution of thousands.
Social Changes
The American Revolution brought few social changes, while the French Revolution had a significant impact on social relations. After the American Revolution, slavery continued in the US, and women were restricted from voting. However, the French Revolution abolished feudalism and replaced it with civil equality, issued the Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen, and gave liberty, equality, and fraternity as core ideals of a democratic society. Women were empowered and engaged in civic society, and slaves were eventually freed.
Conclusion
The American Revolution and the French Revolution marked the beginning of a new era, challenges against the existing political and social systems in their countries, long held beliefs and practiced that limited progress and society’s new course. Both events can be remembered today, and their significance is valued highly in international politics, revolutions, and everything in between. They inspired other societies to stand up for their rights and freedoms, and this is what makes them both crucial milestones in the world history.