Originally built as a medieval fortress, the Bastille eventually came to be used as a state prison. Political prisoners were often held there, along with citizens detained by the authorities for trial.
Some prisoners were held on the direct order of the king, from which there was no appeal.
Although by the late 18th century it was little used and was scheduled to be demolished, the Bastille had come to symbolize the harsh rule of the monarchy.
 |
| Military parade on the Champs Elysées in Paris |
On July 14, 1789 a mob approached the Bastille to demand the arms and ammunition stored there.
When the forces guarding the fortress resisted, the attackers captured the prison, releasing the seven prisoners held there.
Charles Dickens wrote an historical fiction novel based on this event, A Tale of Two Cities. This is a great summer read, if you haven't read it in a while.
The taking of the Bastille signaled the beginning of the French Revolution and marked the entry of the popular class into the French Revolution
From the beginning, speeches, military parades and fireworks, along with public revelry, were part of the celebration.
The slogan “Vive le 14 juillet!” (“Long live the 14th of July!”) has continued to be associated with the day.
 |
| The Bastille |
Put the cassoulet in the oven, and join the celebration!
For 40 years, Excel Math has been building student confidence and success with math.
Have an Excel Math story to share?
Send us your story using the Comments box below. We love hearing from parents, teachers and students around the country!
No comments:
Post a Comment
Type your comment here