What Happened on Bastille Day?
Nearly 250 years ago, the poor people in France were very angry. On July 14, 1789 they decided to rebel against the king and queen. They entered a prison in Paris called Bastille, stole the weapons stored inside the prison and released the prisoners. This was the start of the French Revolution which lasted 10 years.
Fun Fact #1: only 7 prisoners were inside Bastille when the prison was raided.
Why Were the Poor So Angry?
The king controlled everything at the time. The king and his friends were wealthy, very powerful and could do whatever they liked. Does this sound fair?
The poor had two big complains:
- Taxes were too high because the king had an expensive lifestyle
- There was not enough food for everyone
They would chant: “Nous avons faim! Nous ne sommes pas contents!” Who knows what this means?
So What Did They Do?
The poor wanted a democratic government Do you know what a democracy is? After they raided the prison and got the weapons, they decided to fight against the king and his army. The poor were now in charge! They arrested the king and queen of France and their friends. Later the king and queen were executed.
Fun Fact #2: In a democracy everyone has a say on who will run the country and how it will be run. Democracy is a Greek word which means “rule by the people.” Ready for some Take Tzat yet?
Who Celebrates Bastille Day?
Bastille Day is celebrated by France and by many other French speaking countries.
July 14th is a national holiday in France. The most famous event on the day is the Bastille Military Parade. The parade first started in 1880.
Most people also have large picnics, fireworks, music and dance… and some Chomps Elisé, of course!
Fun Fact #3: France’s flag was created during the Revolution. The three colors represent liberty, equality and fraternity for all citizen. Design your own French Flag and send it to us here!
How Does This Relate to Who We Are and What We Do?
At Munchachos, we believe that it is important to fight for what you believe is fair. In order to do so though, it helps to be curious to understand what is fair and what you can do to make a change. There is no better way to learn about the world, its people and other cultures than by tasting its flavours and playing fun games. That is why we created Munchachos!
Sign up to Munchachos here and download our FREE app to explore, have fun, learn loads and get worldwise.