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Why the 1789 Estates General Meeting Was a Big Deal!

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Zoe

06/09/2025

History

The Meeting of the Estate General

102

6 Sept 2025

4 pages

Why the 1789 Estates General Meeting Was a Big Deal!

user profile picture

Zoe

@zoesayers

The meeting of the Estates General 1789marked a pivotal... Show more

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b
O
0
0
The meeting of the Estate General
Key terms:
Constitution
What was the Estates General
Though its clear role was never determined th

Changes in French Society and Representation

French society had undergone significant transformation since the last meeting in 1614, affecting the composition of the Estates General. The assembly reflected these changes, though traditional power structures remained influential.

Vocabulary: The Third Estate represented the common people, while the First and Second Estates represented the clergy and nobility respectively.

Highlight: Noble representatives within the Third Estate, including Jean Joseph Mounier and the Comte de Mirabeau, became some of the most passionate revolutionaries.

Quote: "The apparent intent of the King and his advisers was for everyone to get directly to the matter of taxes, but by trying to avoid the issues of representation they had gravely misjudged the situation."

b
O
0
0
The meeting of the Estate General
Key terms:
Constitution
What was the Estates General
Though its clear role was never determined th

The Formation of the National Assembly

The transformation from Estates General to National Assembly marked a crucial turning point in French history. The Third Estate's bold declaration as the National Assembly on June 17th demonstrated their determination to achieve meaningful reform.

Highlight: The Tennis Court Oath, sworn on June 20th, 1789, committed the Assembly to not separate until they had established a constitution for France.

Example: When the King ordered the closure of their meeting hall, the Assembly's move to a tennis court and subsequent oath demonstrated their resilience and determination.

b
O
0
0
The meeting of the Estate General
Key terms:
Constitution
What was the Estates General
Though its clear role was never determined th

The Final Transformation

The crisis reached its climax with the King's attempted resistance and final capitulation. The transformation of the Estates General into the National Assembly represented a fundamental shift in French political power.

Highlight: The King's attempt to lock out the Assembly backfired, leading to the historic Tennis Court Oath and strengthening the resolve of the reformers.

Quote: "Interpreting this as a hostile move by King Louis XVI and his ministers, the National Assembly proceeded to the nearest available space."

b
O
0
0
The meeting of the Estate General
Key terms:
Constitution
What was the Estates General
Though its clear role was never determined th

The Structure and Formation of the Estates General

The Estates General represented France's closest approximation to a national legislative body, though its precise role remained undefined. This institution comprised representatives from all three estates of French society.

Definition: A constitution represents the fundamental principles and laws of a nation that determine governmental powers and duties while guaranteeing certain rights to the people.

Highlight: Louis XVI's decision to convene the Estates General in 1789 marked the first such assembly since 1614, as previous monarchs had viewed it as a threat to their absolute authority.

Example: The voting system became a major point of contention - if voting occurred by order, the nobility and clergy could outvote the commons 2 to 1, but if each delegate had one vote, the majority would favor the Third Estate.



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The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

 

History

102

6 Sept 2025

4 pages

Why the 1789 Estates General Meeting Was a Big Deal!

user profile picture

Zoe

@zoesayers

The meeting of the Estates General 1789marked a pivotal moment in French history that ultimately led to the French Revolution. This assembly, convened by Louis XVI after a 175-year gap, brought together representatives from France's three estates to address... Show more

b
O
0
0
The meeting of the Estate General
Key terms:
Constitution
What was the Estates General
Though its clear role was never determined th

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

Changes in French Society and Representation

French society had undergone significant transformation since the last meeting in 1614, affecting the composition of the Estates General. The assembly reflected these changes, though traditional power structures remained influential.

Vocabulary: The Third Estate represented the common people, while the First and Second Estates represented the clergy and nobility respectively.

Highlight: Noble representatives within the Third Estate, including Jean Joseph Mounier and the Comte de Mirabeau, became some of the most passionate revolutionaries.

Quote: "The apparent intent of the King and his advisers was for everyone to get directly to the matter of taxes, but by trying to avoid the issues of representation they had gravely misjudged the situation."

b
O
0
0
The meeting of the Estate General
Key terms:
Constitution
What was the Estates General
Though its clear role was never determined th

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

The Formation of the National Assembly

The transformation from Estates General to National Assembly marked a crucial turning point in French history. The Third Estate's bold declaration as the National Assembly on June 17th demonstrated their determination to achieve meaningful reform.

Highlight: The Tennis Court Oath, sworn on June 20th, 1789, committed the Assembly to not separate until they had established a constitution for France.

Example: When the King ordered the closure of their meeting hall, the Assembly's move to a tennis court and subsequent oath demonstrated their resilience and determination.

b
O
0
0
The meeting of the Estate General
Key terms:
Constitution
What was the Estates General
Though its clear role was never determined th

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

The Final Transformation

The crisis reached its climax with the King's attempted resistance and final capitulation. The transformation of the Estates General into the National Assembly represented a fundamental shift in French political power.

Highlight: The King's attempt to lock out the Assembly backfired, leading to the historic Tennis Court Oath and strengthening the resolve of the reformers.

Quote: "Interpreting this as a hostile move by King Louis XVI and his ministers, the National Assembly proceeded to the nearest available space."

b
O
0
0
The meeting of the Estate General
Key terms:
Constitution
What was the Estates General
Though its clear role was never determined th

Sign up to see the contentIt's free!

Access to all documents

Improve your grades

Join milions of students

By signing up you accept Terms of Service and Privacy Policy

The Structure and Formation of the Estates General

The Estates General represented France's closest approximation to a national legislative body, though its precise role remained undefined. This institution comprised representatives from all three estates of French society.

Definition: A constitution represents the fundamental principles and laws of a nation that determine governmental powers and duties while guaranteeing certain rights to the people.

Highlight: Louis XVI's decision to convene the Estates General in 1789 marked the first such assembly since 1614, as previous monarchs had viewed it as a threat to their absolute authority.

Example: The voting system became a major point of contention - if voting occurred by order, the nobility and clergy could outvote the commons 2 to 1, but if each delegate had one vote, the majority would favor the Third Estate.

We thought you’d never ask...

What is the Knowunity AI companion?

Our AI Companion is a student-focused AI tool that offers more than just answers. Built on millions of Knowunity resources, it provides relevant information, personalised study plans, quizzes, and content directly in the chat, adapting to your individual learning journey.

Where can I download the Knowunity app?

You can download the app from Google Play Store and Apple App Store.

Is Knowunity really free of charge?

That's right! Enjoy free access to study content, connect with fellow students, and get instant help – all at your fingertips.

Can't find what you're looking for? Explore other subjects.

Students love us — and so will you.

4.9/5

App Store

4.8/5

Google Play

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user

The app is very easy to use and well designed. I have found everything I was looking for so far and have been able to learn a lot from the presentations! I will definitely use the app for a class assignment! And of course it also helps a lot as an inspiration.

Stefan S

iOS user

This app is really great. There are so many study notes and help [...]. My problem subject is French, for example, and the app has so many options for help. Thanks to this app, I have improved my French. I would recommend it to anyone.

Samantha Klich

Android user

Wow, I am really amazed. I just tried the app because I've seen it advertised many times and was absolutely stunned. This app is THE HELP you want for school and above all, it offers so many things, such as workouts and fact sheets, which have been VERY helpful to me personally.

Anna

iOS user

Best app on earth! no words because it’s too good

Thomas R

iOS user

Just amazing. Let's me revise 10x better, this app is a quick 10/10. I highly recommend it to anyone. I can watch and search for notes. I can save them in the subject folder. I can revise it any time when I come back. If you haven't tried this app, you're really missing out.

Basil

Android user

This app has made me feel so much more confident in my exam prep, not only through boosting my own self confidence through the features that allow you to connect with others and feel less alone, but also through the way the app itself is centred around making you feel better. It is easy to navigate, fun to use, and helpful to anyone struggling in absolutely any way.

David K

iOS user

The app's just great! All I have to do is enter the topic in the search bar and I get the response real fast. I don't have to watch 10 YouTube videos to understand something, so I'm saving my time. Highly recommended!

Sudenaz Ocak

Android user

In school I was really bad at maths but thanks to the app, I am doing better now. I am so grateful that you made the app.

Greenlight Bonnie

Android user

very reliable app to help and grow your ideas of Maths, English and other related topics in your works. please use this app if your struggling in areas, this app is key for that. wish I'd of done a review before. and it's also free so don't worry about that.

Rohan U

Android user

I know a lot of apps use fake accounts to boost their reviews but this app deserves it all. Originally I was getting 4 in my English exams and this time I got a grade 7. I didn’t even know about this app three days until the exam and it has helped A LOT. Please actually trust me and use it as I’m sure you too will see developments.

Xander S

iOS user

THE QUIZES AND FLASHCARDS ARE SO USEFUL AND I LOVE THE SCHOOLGPT. IT ALSO IS LITREALLY LIKE CHATGPT BUT SMARTER!! HELPED ME WITH MY MASCARA PROBLEMS TOO!! AS WELL AS MY REAL SUBJECTS ! DUHHH 😍😁😲🤑💗✨🎀😮

Elisha

iOS user

This apps acc the goat. I find revision so boring but this app makes it so easy to organize it all and then you can ask the freeeee ai to test yourself so good and you can easily upload your own stuff. highly recommend as someone taking mocks now

Paul T

iOS user