The French Revolution, 1789-1799

"The French Revolution, 1989-1999" is an enlightening book on the reasons, origins, development and repercussions of the French Revolution. This is a useful book for people who want to have a brief but comprehensive overview of this important event in the history of modern France, modern Europe and indeed the world. The author methodically explains the conditions in France before the revolutions, the suffering and deprivation of the majority of the populace, the excesses of the monarchy and its allies in the nobility and the church. He presents arguments and views on whether the French Revolution was in deed a revolution, why it happened the way it did, among other things. Some of the major players in the Revolution are discussed, highlighting their roles and contributions. Peter McPhee goes further to discuss wider and far reaching significance of the Revolution including such topics as its environmental impact, its implications on demography and family life as well as on religion in France and elsewhere. The book is recommended for those not familiar with the French Revolution or whose knowledge of the Revolution has gone "rusty".

McPhee's book is a useful overview of the major events that transpired in France between the convocation of the Estates General in 1789 and the collapse of the Thermidorian regime. The author focuses on four major themes: 1) the rise of political cultre and the public sphere 2) gender 3) the origins of the Terror and 4) the role of the "crowd/people" in shaping events. Although the development of revolutionary culture is addressed, it appears mostly as an afterthought. Well suited (and intended) for adaptation as a college textbook, the book is recommended for undergraduates (and general readers) who are looking for a quick summary of the Revolutionary era.