The Bastille was a fortress-prison located in the heart of Paris, France. It was built in the 14th century to protect the city from attacks, but by the late 18th century, it had become a symbol of tyranny and oppression. On July 14, 1789, a group of Parisians stormed the Bastille and sparked the French Revolution.
What Was Life Like Inside The Bastille?
Life inside the Bastille was miserable for its prisoners. They were confined to small cells with no windows or natural light.
Many were subjected to torture and other forms of abuse by their jailers. The food was often spoiled, and prisoners had to rely on their own resources to survive.
Why Did The People Storm The Bastille?
The people stormed the Bastille because they saw it as a symbol of everything that was wrong with the French government at the time. They believed that by taking control of the prison, they could start a revolution that would bring about a more just society.
What Happened During The Storming Of The Bastille?
On July 14, 1789, thousands of Parisians gathered outside the walls of the Bastille. After hours of negotiation and violence, they managed to break through and gain control of the prison. The governor and many of his guards were killed in the process.
The Aftermath
The storming of the Bastille marked a turning point in French history. It showed that ordinary people could rise up against their oppressors and take control of their own destiny. In the years that followed, France underwent significant political and social changes as it moved towards modern democracy.
- The monarchy was abolished.
- A new government was established.
- The Declaration of Rights Of Man And Citizen was passed, granting basic human rights to all citizens.
- The Reign of Terror followed, during which many people were executed for their political beliefs.
Conclusion
The Bastille was a symbol of tyranny and oppression that had to be destroyed if France was ever going to become a modern democracy. The storming of the Bastille was a turning point in French history and led to significant political and social changes that continue to influence the world today.