What Events Led to the Adoption of the Constitution of 1791?

The adoption of the French Constitution of 1791 was the result of several revolutionary events that transformed France from absolute monarchy to constitutional rule. The main events include:

1. Financial Crisis – France’s heavy debts and inequality in taxation angered citizens.
2. Calling of the Estates-General (1789) – King Louis XVI summoned representatives from all estates to solve the crisis.
3. Formation of the National Assembly – The Third Estate broke away, declaring itself the true representative of the people.
4. Tennis Court Oath – Members vowed not to disband until they drafted a constitution.
5. Storming of the Bastille (July 14, 1789) – A symbol of royal tyranny was destroyed, sparking nationwide uprisings.
6. Abolition of Feudal Privileges (August 1789) – Nobles lost special rights; equality before law was proclaimed.
7. Declaration of the Rights of Man and Citizen – Established principles of liberty and equality.

The growing pressure forced the king to accept a constitutional monarchy. The Constitution of 1791 created elected assemblies and reduced royal authority. It was France’s first attempt to combine monarchy with democracy, marking a key turning point in European political history.