What was a major goal of the French Revolution?

A major goal of the French Revolution was to overthrow the monarchy and establish a republic. This movement, which began in 1789, was driven by widespread discontent with the absolute rule of King Louis XVI and the privileges held by the aristocracy. The revolutionaries sought to create a society based on the principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity, aiming to eliminate the class privileges that had long been entrenched in French society.

By advocating for a republic, the revolutionaries wanted to ensure that political power was derived from the people rather than from a hereditary monarchy. This shift towards a republican government symbolized a break from traditional feudal structures, aligning with Enlightenment ideas that emphasized democracy and civic equality. The establishment of the First French Republic in 1792 marked a significant turning point in the pursuit of these revolutionary ideals, representing a foundational moment in the transition toward modern democratic governance.