The Catholic Church in Revolutionary France

Taylor·

History

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At a Glance

Grade Level8th Grade

SubjectHistory

Original Prompt

What happened to the Catholic church during the French revolution in France

This learning resource examines the transformation of the Catholic Church's role in French society during the French Revolution from 1789 to 1799. It outlines the Church's powerful position prior to the revolution, including its wealth, exemption from taxes, and symbiotic relationship with the monarchy. The resource discusses the Civil Constitution of the Clergy, which established clergy as civil servants and required oaths of loyalty to the state, altering church-state relations. It highlights the dechristianization campaign that sought to diminish the Church's influence through the closure of churches, destruction of religious symbols, and implementation of a secular calendar. Finally, it explores the Concordat of 1801, which signified a shift towards state control over the Church during Napoleon's regime, ensuring the Church's loyalty to the French state.