Bastille day history

 

Bastille Day, also known as French National Day or La Fête Nationale, is celebrated on July 14th each year. Here's a brief overview of the history of Bastille Day:

Context of the French Revolution: In the late 18th century, France faced economic hardship, social inequality, and political unrest. The French Revolution was a period of radical social and political change that aimed to overthrow the monarchy and establish a more democratic government.

The Bastille Prison: The Bastille was a medieval fortress and prison located in Paris. It symbolized royal authority and was seen by the people as a symbol of tyranny and oppression. The prison held political prisoners, and its fall represented the overthrow of the monarchy.

The Storming of the Bastille: On July 14, 1789, a large crowd of Parisians gathered and attacked the Bastille in search of ammunition and to release the prisoners. The mob overwhelmed the guards, and after several hours of fighting, they successfully seized the fortress. The storming of the Bastille became a powerful symbol of popular uprising and resistance against the monarchy.

Significance of the Event: The fall of the Bastille marked a turning point in the French Revolution. It demonstrated the strength of popular support for revolutionary ideals and signaled the collapse of royal authority. The event fueled the momentum of the revolution and inspired further uprisings across France.

Establishment of French National Day: The following year, on July 14, 1790, the Fête de la Fédération (Festival of the Federation) was held in Paris to celebrate the unity of the French people and the principles of the revolution. This event marked the first anniversary of the storming of the Bastille and laid the foundation for the establishment of French National Day.

Since then, July 14th has been celebrated as a national holiday in France, honoring the values of liberty, equality, and fraternity. The day is marked by various festivities, including parades, fireworks, public gatherings, and cultural events throughout the country.

It's important to note that while the storming of the Bastille was a significant event, it did not immediately lead to the establishment of a stable democratic government. The French Revolution continued for several years, undergoing various phases and transformations before the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte and the subsequent establishment of the First French Empire.