French Revolution Begins
The storming of the Bastille marked the beginning of the French Revolution, fundamentally transforming French society and politics.
On July 14, 1789, Parisian revolutionaries stormed the Bastille fortress-prison, a symbol of royal authority. This event is considered the flashpoint of the French Revolution, which overthrew the monarchy, established a republic, and fundamentally altered the course of modern history. The Revolution's ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity inspired democratic movements around the world, though the Revolution itself descended into the Reign of Terror before Napoleon's rise to power.
More in Social Movements
Abolition of Slavery in the British Empire
The Slavery Abolition Act was passed, making the purchase or ownership of slaves illegal throughout the British Empire.
December 10, 1948Universal Declaration of Human Rights
The United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, establishing fundamental human rights to be universally protected.