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The revolution was triggered by a "perfect storm" of social, economic, and political factors:

Its ideals inspired later revolutions across Europe, Latin America, and the Caribbean (notably the Haitian Revolution).

In 1792, the monarchy was abolished and France was declared a republic.

Years of bad harvests, food shortages, and skyrocketing bread prices left the peasantry starving.

As internal chaos grew and external wars against European monarchies intensified, the revolution turned violent:

In July 1794, Robespierre himself was executed, ending the most radical phase of the revolution. 4. The Rise of Napoleon (1795–1799)

Led by Maximilien Robespierre and the Committee of Public Safety, the government executed thousands of "enemies of the revolution."

The French population was divided into three "Estates": First Estate: The Clergy (exempt from taxes).