Third Estate Forms National Assembly in France

June 17th, 1789

June 17th, 1789

Third Estate Forms National Assembly in France
How Long Ago?

235 years, 8 months, 26 days ago

Location

Versailles, France

Category

Politics & Government

People
  • Louis XVI
  • Maximilien Robespierre
  • Emmanuel Joseph Sieyès
  • Jean-Sylvain Bailly
Links & References
Tags

Third Estate Forms National Assembly in France

On June 17, 1789, representatives of the Third Estate in France declared themselves the National Assembly. This pivotal moment followed their frustration with the refusal of the other estates to reform the voting process during the Estates-General meeting. The Third Estate, comprised mainly of commoners, sought to represent the majority of the French population and aimed to address issues of inequality and taxation. Their declaration signaled a significant shift in power dynamics, advocating for a governmental structure that would reflect the will of the people.

National Assembly declared by commoners' representatives.

Frustrations with voting processes led to declaration.

First step towards the French Revolution's reforms.

Promoted ideas of democracy and popular sovereignty.

What Happened?

The declaration of the Third Estate as the National Assembly marked a crucial turning point in French political history. The Third Estate, which represented the commoners and a vast majority of the population, met on June 17, 1789, after facing persistent opposition at the Estates-General convened at Versailles. Frustrated by their diminished representation and the voting mechanism that favored the First and Second Estates, the members of the Third Estate took a bold step on that day to assert their authority and legitimacy as representatives of the people.

As a statement of intent, the delegates proposed to draft a new constitution, emphasizing the principles of popular sovereignty and the rights of citizens. The move was met with varying reactions from the monarchy and the other estates; Louis XVI's government was alarmed at this assertion of popular power, fearing it could undermine royal authority. Nonetheless, the National Assembly began working on reforms aimed at addressing the issues of taxation, legal rights, and social equity.

Subsequently, the National Assembly initiated a series of progressive changes that would culminate in the French Revolution. Their actions inspired widespread public support and led to events such as the Tennis Court Oath, where members vowed not to disband until a new constitution was established. This declaration established the foundation for the transition from absolute monarchy to a republic in France.

Why Does it Matter?

The declaration of the National Assembly by the Third Estate is a seminal moment in the progression towards modern democratic governance. It represented a shift in power dynamics from the elite to the common people, asserting that legitimacy in government should derive from the consent of the governed. This was not only a defining moment for France but also influenced revolutionary movements around the globe by promoting concepts of equality and citizenship.

Discover More Historic Events from June 17th

Social Movements & Civil Rights

Juneteenth Becomes Official Federal Holiday

June 17th, 2021 3 years ago

Juneteenth National Independence Day was established as a federal holiday when President Joe Biden signed the bill into law. This day commemorates the end of slavery in the United States and is celebrated annually on June 19. The passage of the bill marks a significant moment in American history recognizing the struggles against racism and the continued fight for civil rights. More than 150 years after the Emancipation Proclamation, Juneteenth received formal recognition at the national level.

Continue Reading
Natural Disasters

Devastating wildfires in central Portugal

June 17th, 2017 7 years ago

In June, wildfires erupted in central Portugal, leading to a serious humanitarian crisis. The wildfires, fueled by extreme temperatures and strong winds, claimed the lives of at least 64 individuals and injured 204 others. Most of the fatalities occurred as people attempted to escape the flames or were caught in their vehicles. The blaze spread rapidly through the region, particularly affecting forests and rural areas. Firefighting efforts were hampered by the weather conditions, creating a significant challenge for emergency responders. The incident raised awareness about fire safety regulations and forest management practices in Portugal.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Mass shooting at Emanuel AME Church

June 17th, 2015 9 years ago

A gunman entered Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church during a prayer meeting, opened fire, and killed nine people, including the pastor. The attack occurred in Charleston, South Carolina, and was driven by racial motivations. The shooter, identified as Dylann Roof, later confessed to intending to spark a race war. The incident shocked the nation and reignited debates over gun control and racial tensions in America.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

O. J. Simpson's Low-Speed Chase and Arrest

June 17th, 1994 30 years ago

O. J. Simpson was arrested following a dramatic low-speed car chase on national television. The chase began in a white Ford Bronco, driven by his friend Al Cowlings, as it traveled through Los Angeles. Police were pursuing Simpson in connection with the murders of his ex-wife, Nicole Brown Simpson, and her friend Ronald Goldman. The chase captured the attention of millions across the United States, culminating in Simpson's eventual surrender at his home. The chase became a media spectacle, reflecting societal interests in celebrity culture and crime.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

U.S. and Russia Sign Arms Reduction Agreement

June 17th, 1992 32 years ago

U.S. President George Bush and Russian President Boris Yeltsin signed a 'joint understanding' agreement aimed at arms reduction, which would later be formally codified in START II. This agreement showcased a significant step towards nuclear disarmament during a period of post-Cold War thawing relations between the U.S. and Russia. The signing occurred in Washington, D.C., reflecting both leaders' commitment to reducing nuclear arsenals and fostering a cooperative bilateral relationship.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Repeal of the Population Registration Act

June 17th, 1991 33 years ago

The South African Parliament repealed the Population Registration Act, which mandated racial classification of all citizens at birth. This law was a key component of apartheid, enforcing racial segregation and discrimination. The repeal marked a significant step towards dismantling the apartheid system. With this change, the government sought to eliminate official racial classifications and promote a more inclusive society. The decision was part of a broader series of reforms aimed at achieving equality and ending decades of institutionalized racism in South Africa.

Continue Reading