The Age Of Revolutions

Two of the most famous (or infamous) events in the late 18th century are the American and French revolutions. However, if we look at the definition of the word "revolution" we find that it is "A complete overthrow of an established government or political system." Although this was the case in the French revolution, it was not as true of the American revolution. This is only one of the differences between the American and French revolutions. Although both shared ideas of liberty and equality, were affected by the enlightenment and tried to rebel against lawful kings, they occurred in vastly different situations. The French had been an oppressed people ever since Louis XVI. Their revolution grew out of painful oppression and suffering. On the other hand, the American "revolution" was more calm, because it came from a people who already had experience in self-government. While the French created a bloodbath that ended in a dictatorship under Napoleon, the Americans more peacefully succeeded in removing themselves from the king's power. Also the French leaders of the revolution were corrupt and power-hungry, while American leaders like Washington were godly, wise and selfless. There were other differences, but it is plain that though they were both called "revolutions" the two conflicts were complete opposites.