The French Revolution | Events of 1789 MCQs Quiz | Class 9

This Class IX History quiz covers the Unit: Events and Processes, specifically focusing on the Topic: The French Revolution. It explores the Events of 1789, including the Storming of Bastille and the formation of the National Assembly. Test your understanding, view your score instantly, and download the solution PDF.

Overview: Events of 1789

The year 1789 marks the beginning of the French Revolution, a pivotal period in world history. It was characterized by the uprising of the common people against the absolute monarchy and the feudal system. Two major events define the early phase of this revolution: the formation of the National Assembly and the Storming of the Bastille.

1. The National Assembly

On May 5, 1789, Louis XVI called together an assembly of the Estates General to pass proposals for new taxes. However, the Third Estate demanded that voting be conducted by the assembly as a whole, where each member would have one vote. When the King rejected this proposal, members of the Third Estate walked out in protest.

  • June 20, 1789: Representatives of the Third Estate assembled in the hall of an indoor tennis court in Versailles.
  • Declaration: They declared themselves a National Assembly and swore not to disperse until they had drafted a constitution for France that would limit the powers of the monarch.
  • Leaders: They were led by Mirabeau (a noble) and Abbe Sieyes (a priest), signifying that the desire for change crossed class lines.

2. Storming of the Bastille

While the National Assembly was busy at Versailles drafting a constitution, the rest of France was in turmoil. A severe winter had meant a bad harvest, the price of bread rose, and bakers exploited the situation by hoarding supplies.

  • Date: July 14, 1789.
  • Event: An agitated crowd stormed and destroyed the Bastille, a fortress-prison in Paris.
  • Significance: The Bastille was hated by all because it stood for the despotic power of the king. Its fall symbolized the collapse of the king’s absolute authority.
  • Aftermath: Stone fragments were sold as souvenirs. This event sparked a chain reaction of revolts across France.

Key Events Timeline

Date Event
May 5, 1789 Meeting of Estates General
June 20, 1789 Tennis Court Oath (National Assembly)
July 14, 1789 Storming of the Bastille
August 4, 1789 Abolition of Feudal System

Important Revision Points

  • The Great Fear spread in the countryside, where peasants attacked chateaux and burned documents containing records of manorial dues.
  • Louis XVI eventually accorded recognition to the National Assembly and accepted the principle that his powers would be checked by a constitution.
  • The Assembly passed a decree abolishing the feudal system of obligations and taxes on the night of 4 August 1789.

Extra Practice Questions

  • Q1. Who wrote the pamphlet called ‘What is the Third Estate’? (Ans: Abbe Sieyes)
  • Q2. What happened to the seven prisoners found in the Bastille? (Ans: They were released)
  • Q3. Where is Versailles located relative to Paris? (Ans: Near Paris)
  • Q4. What was the immediate cause of the rioting in Paris in July 1789? (Ans: High price of bread/food shortage)
  • Q5. Which estate paid all the taxes before 1789? (Ans: The Third Estate)