American Revolution vs. French Revolution — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Published on January 2, 2024
The American Revolution (1765-1783) was a colonial revolt against British rule leading to the creation of the USA, while the French Revolution (1789-1799) was a radical upheaval against the French monarchy and feudal system.
Difference Between American Revolution and French Revolution
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
The American Revolution was primarily a political struggle for independence from British colonial rule, motivated by issues like taxation without representation. The French Revolution, meanwhile, was driven by social and economic inequalities, aiming to overthrow the monarchy and abolish the feudal system.
The American Revolution resulted in the establishment of a democratic republic, the United States of America. The French Revolution led to the temporary abolition of the French monarchy and the establishment of the First French Republic, but it was followed by political instability and the rise of Napoleon Bonaparte.
Ideologically, the American Revolution was influenced by Enlightenment ideals of liberty and representative government. The French Revolution expanded on these Enlightenment ideas, also emphasizing equality and fraternity, but led to radical and violent changes.
The American Revolution was relatively less violent and more focused on political autonomy. The French Revolution was characterized by significant internal violence, including the Reign of Terror, and radical societal restructuring.
In terms of global impact, the American Revolution inspired other independence movements and established a new nation. The French Revolution had a profound impact on European politics, leading to widespread changes in governance and society.
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Comparison Chart
Cause
Independence from British rule
Overthrowing the monarchy, social equality
Outcome
Creation of the USA
Establishment and fall of the First French Republic
Ideological Influence
Enlightenment ideals of liberty and representative government
Enlightenment ideals, equality, fraternity
Nature of Conflict
Political struggle, less violent
Radical societal changes, violent
Global Impact
Inspired other independence movements
Significant impact on European politics and society
Compare with Definitions
American Revolution
Established the United States of America.
Following the American Revolution, the U.S. Constitution was adopted.
French Revolution
Led to the establishment of the First French Republic.
After the French Revolution, the monarchy was abolished.
American Revolution
Influenced by Enlightenment ideals.
The American Revolution was shaped by ideas of liberty and democracy.
French Revolution
Included the Reign of Terror and radical changes.
The Reign of Terror was a particularly violent phase of the French Revolution.
American Revolution
Motivated by taxation without representation.
The Boston Tea Party was a key event in the American Revolution.
French Revolution
A radical movement against the French monarchy.
The French Revolution began with the storming of the Bastille in 1789.
American Revolution
A less violent struggle for political autonomy.
Compared to the French Revolution, the American Revolution was less radical.
French Revolution
Had a profound impact on European society.
The French Revolution influenced numerous democratic movements in Europe.
American Revolution
A colonial revolt against British rule.
The American Revolution led to the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
French Revolution
Driven by social and economic inequalities.
The French Revolution was a response to the oppression of the Third Estate.
Common Curiosities
Who were the key figures in the American Revolution?
George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Benjamin Franklin.
When did the American Revolution occur?
From 1765 to 1783.
Was the French Revolution more violent than the American Revolution?
Yes, it involved widespread internal violence.
How did the French Revolution affect Europe?
It challenged monarchies and inspired democratic ideas across the continent.
What sparked the French Revolution?
Economic hardship and social inequalities.
What was the outcome of the American Revolution?
Independence of the American colonies and formation of the United States.
What role did Enlightenment ideals play in the American Revolution?
They influenced the principles of liberty and representative government.
Who led the French Revolution?
It was led by various political groups, including the Jacobins.
What government was established after the French Revolution?
The First French Republic.
How did the American Revolution impact other countries?
It inspired other independence and democratic movements worldwide.
How did the American Revolution end?
With the Treaty of Paris in 1783.
What was the Reign of Terror?
A period of the French Revolution marked by mass executions and political purges.
What was the economic cause of the French Revolution?
The financial crisis due to national debt and inequitable taxation.
Did the American Revolution involve international aid?
Yes, notably from France.
Were the American and French Revolutions directly related?
The American Revolution partly inspired the French Revolution, but they had different contexts and outcomes.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
