jul 12, 1789 - Revolutionary Days
Description:
Saturday 11th July
There were now over 30,000 troops (many were foreign mercenaries) surrounding Versailles and Paris to “protect Paris from disorder” according to the King. These words fell on deaf ears when the King dismissed Necker.
Sunday 12th July
Necker’s dismissal caused a financial panic in Paris. The stock Exchange was closed and the price of bread rose. Mobs attacked the custom posts (which exacted tolls on all produce entering Paris) destroying 40 out of 54. Crowds gathered at the Palais Royal and heard radical speakers, one of whom named Camille Desmoulins, repeatedly called “to arms!” Many wealthier (bourgeois) Parisians feared the the mob would get out of control and formed a militia (later known as the national Guard) to protect their businesses and property and to protect Paris from any attack by royal troops.
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French Revolution
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